ISLAMABAD: President Dr. Arif Alvi called for boosting cooperation with Iran and Romania in all areas of mutual interest. In separate meetings with envoys of Iran and Romania here at Aiwan-e-Sadr President said that Pakistan greatly valued its fraternal relations with Iran as both brotherly countries shared historic linkages and cultural affinities, besides having commonalities of views on issues of regional and international significance.

He emphasised need for increasing economic cooperation and expanding trade volume for mutual benefit of two countries. He highlighted atrocities being committed by Indian security forces against Muslims in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of India, saying Muslims were being isolated and persecuted in India and Muslim World needed to take notice of Indian brutalities against Muslims. President thanked Iranian government for its support and stance on Kashmir issue.

Appreciating landmark initiative taken by Iran and Saudi Arabia to normalise diplomatic relations, President said that normalisation of relations between two countries would lead to peace and stability in Middle East. Meeting underscored need for promoting counter-terrorism cooperation to eliminate menace of terrorism.

Ambassador Seyed Mohammad Ali Hosseini underlined need for enhancing economic, cultural and political cooperation between two countries. He said that both countries had great potential to further expand economic cooperation. He informed that both sides had agreed to construct six border markets that would boost bilateral trade. He apprised President of ongoing electricity transmission projects that would benefit people of Balochistan.

In his meeting with Ambassador of Romania Nicolae Goia, President said that Romania was an important country in Eastern Europe and Pakistan desired to deepen its relationship with Romania in fields of trade and economy. He thanked Romanian government for its support to Pakistan in granting and continuation of GSP plus status. Both sides underscored need for improving economic relations and undertaking regular exchanges and interactions at highest levels to further cement bilateral ties.

Romanian Ambassador conveyed gratitude on behalf of President of Romania for support provided by Pakistan in evacuation of Romanian nationals from Afghanistan during August and September 2021.

Published in The Daily National Courier, April, 28 2023

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