Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif met Australian High Commissioner Neil Hawkins in Lahore on Friday for a farewell meeting, where both leaders discussed trade expansion, investment opportunities, and strengthening bilateral cooperation. Maryam praised Hawkins for his distinguished service in Pakistan, highlighting his role in promoting friendly relations and long-term partnerships between the two countries across multiple sectors.
During the meeting, both sides emphasized the importance of expanding trade in textiles, food processing, minerals, and IT services. Maryam said Pakistan and Australia are also working together in agriculture, livestock, and aquaculture, with a focus on cold chain logistics for fisheries imports. She noted that last July’s Australian Agriculture Mission visit to Pakistan reflected deep cooperation in agri-trade and future growth potential.
The chief minister stressed that Punjab holds great opportunities for Australian investors, particularly in IT and tourism. She assured that the Punjab government would extend all necessary support to encourage investment, technology transfer, and economic collaboration under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). Maryam also mentioned efforts to save rainwater and improve mineral resource utilization as part of sustainable development goals.
Maryam Nawaz further pointed out that thousands of Punjabis living in Australia have strengthened cultural and economic ties between the two nations. She emphasized the need for stronger parliamentary relations and cooperation on shared global challenges, including climate change, while also ensuring the safety and rights of minorities in Punjab and across Pakistan.
Australian High Commissioner Neil Hawkins reaffirmed that Pakistan and Australia are trusted friends and important economic partners. He highlighted the mutual respect and long-standing friendship that form the foundation of their relationship, expressing confidence that cooperation in trade, education, and climate action would continue to grow even after his departure.