Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held key bilateral meetings with his Australian and Canadian counterparts on the sidelines of the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial Meeting in Kuala Lumpur on Thursday. These meetings focused on boosting economic partnerships and enhancing diplomatic engagement.
In his discussion with Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, FM Dar reaffirmed the strong ties between Pakistan and Australia. He highlighted the importance of deepening cooperation in trade, education, and people-to-people exchanges. The two leaders noted that cricket and the Pakistani diaspora serve as a vibrant bridge between both nations.
Both sides agreed to strengthen bilateral trade, currently valued at $1.186 billion, and to explore new academic and cultural collaborations. FM Dar also proposed increasing high-level visits to further solidify mutual understanding and strategic engagement.
Later, FM Dar met with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand to review the growing positive momentum in Pakistan-Canada relations. They acknowledged the need to upscale economic and trade cooperation in light of global challenges and opportunities.
During the meeting, FM Dar invited the Canadian foreign minister to visit Pakistan, an invitation she warmly accepted. The ministers agreed to continue dialogue on trade, investment, and joint efforts in multilateral forums.
These engagements reflect Pakistan’s commitment to expanding its global partnerships and playing an active role in regional and international diplomacy.