Islamabad, 13 November 2021 (TDI): The 11th Round of Pakistan-Switzerland Bilateral Political Consultations was held at Foreign Office, Islamabad, on 12 November. The Pakistani side was led by Dr. Muhammad Tariq, Additional Secretary Europe. While, Ambassador Raphael Nageli, Assistant Secretary of State for Asia-Pacific, headed the Swiss delegation.
The meeting marked a discussion of Swiss-Pakistan bilateral relations. The two sides also exchanged views on regional issues.
Pakistan-Switzerland Bilateral Relations
Pakistan and Switzerland share cordial diplomatic relations at the bilateral and multilateral levels. Switzerland is one of the lead investors in Pakistan.
During the meeting, the two sides discussed bilateral relations between Pakistan and Switzerland in diverse sectors including political, economic, investment, education, agriculture, science, and technology. Both sides also deliberated over bilateral defense ties and cooperation at multilateral forums.
Moreover, the two sides expressed satisfaction with the existing ties between Pakistan and Switzerland. They stressed the vast potential of the two economies and agreed to enhance economic and commercial relations.
Furthermore, both sides recognized the significance of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries and pledged to further augment bilateral relations at all levels.
Discussion on regional situation
Additionally, both sides exchanged views on regional issues.
Additional Secretary, Dr. Muhammad Tariq, apprised the Swiss side about the grim humanitarian situation in the Illegally Indian Occupied Kashmir. He briefed them about the unilateral Indian action to alter the demographics structure of the valley and its blatant human rights violations.
Moreover, the Additional Secretary shared Pakistan’s efforts for peace and stability in Afghanistan. He informed the Swiss delegation about the assistance rendered by Pakistan in this regard, including evacuation operations and humanitarian aid. He said Pakistan is committed to the cause of peaceful, stable, and prosperous Afghanistan.
Ambassador Raphael Nageli appreciated Pakistan’s efforts for Afghanistan. He thanked Pakistan for assisting in safe evacuation of Swiss nationals and others from Kabul.
Meeting with Pakistan’s Foreign Secretary
Ambassador Raphael Nageli also held a meeting with Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood. Both officials discussed matters of mutual interest.
The Foreign Secretary informed the Swiss ambassador about shift in the government’s policy from geopolitics to geo-economics. He said Pakistan highly prioritizes its economic ties with other countries and aspires to enhance its economic relations with Switzerland.
Moreover, Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood shared Pakistan’s perspective on Afghanistan during the meeting. He also emphasized the need for constructive and positive engagement of the international community with Afghanistan. He further added international humanitarian aid is necessary for averting a humanitarian and economic crisis in Afghanistan.
Furthermore, the Foreign Secretary reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to enhance bilateral relations between the two countries.
Additionally, Ambassador Raphael thanked the Foreign Secretary for having an insightful discussion on Pakistan-Switzerland relations. He also remarked that the ties between the two countries are mutually beneficial.
The 11th Round of 11th Pakistan-Switzerland Bilateral Political Consultations will further strengthen the diplomatic relations between the two countries.
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