Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch has said that Pakistan is determined to strengthen its relationships with other countries through regional and international partnerships, especially in the areas of connectivity, economic growth, and security.
Talking to a private television channel, she said that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) was a key project in materializing the goal of regional connectivity and prosperity. She said that the multi-billion project would link Pakistan with neighboring regions, which would result in economic growth and subsequently provision of better opportunities for the people.
The spokesperson spoke about the ongoing efforts to expand Pakistan’s cooperation with Turkey by linking road and rail networks. She said the initiative would not only promote trade but also facilitate transport, which in turn strengthen the economic links between the two countries. These steps are important for regional development, she said, as she called connectivity a ‘cornerstone of economic and social prosperity’.
During a visit to the Media Facilitation Center at the Pak-China Friendship Centre for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Summit in Islamabad, the spokesperson said that leaders from 12 countries would discuss critical issues such as regional security, climate change, economic challenges, and poverty alleviation.
She said the Shanghai Cooperation Organization – the second largest forum globally after the United Nations – offers a unique platform to address pressing issues through multilateral cooperation. She said that the leaders were expected to issue a unanimous declaration at the end of the summit.
She also clarified that while the summit’s primary focus was multilateral, no political issues, including those related to occupied territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Palestine, were part of the agenda. She said that the gathering was a consensus-based event aimed at promoting cooperation among member states without any politically-charged discussions.
Mumtaz Zahra Baloch said that the organization provides a platform for key players in the region to address shared challenges and enhance mutual collaboration. She said that other than regional security and economic integration, climate change was a top priority agenda item at the summit.
She explained that the conference would focus on the economic and environmental challenges faced by underdeveloped countries, with special emphasis on sustainable development. She said that the member states would explore ways to boost economic activity across the region, hence providing much-needed support to countries struggling with poverty and economic instability.
Pakistan welcomes dignitaries with a melodic tribute to its heritage
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has taken the opportunity to showcase the country’s cultural richness and hospitality, and released a special song to welcome foreign dignitaries attending the summit. The song has been performed by Pakistani singer Umair Jaswal, which highlights not only the vibrant cultural heritage but also warmth of the people.
The song beautifully captures the diverse landscapes, historical landmarks, and the hardworking nature of Pakistanis. It reflects the dedication and passion that Pakistanis have for the development of their country, and it is expected to leave a lasting impression on the visionary leaders and foreign guests.
PAKISTAN-ROMANIA TIES
The Foreign Office issued a statement commemorating the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Romania. The statement described the anniversary as a testament to the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two countries. Over the past six decades, Pakistan and Romania have worked together across multiple sectors to strengthen their relationship, it said.
The two sides had cooperated closely in international forums, including the United Nations. According to the statement, the foreign ministers of Pakistan and Romania exchanged congratulatory messages to mark the occasion and reaffirmed their commitment to further expand this bilateral cooperation. A joint logo symbolizing the enduring friendship between the two countries was also unveiled as part of the celebrations.