Pakistan and Australia discuss visa assistance and bilateral ties

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Pakistan and
Australia High Commissioner Neil Hawkins and Pakistan Minister of State Hina Rabbani Khar having a meeting.

Islamabad, 18 April 2023 (TDI): Yesterday, the High Commissioner of Australia, Neil Hawkin, met with Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, Hina Rabbani Khar, to discuss bilateral ties and delay in the visas of Pakistani students.

The agenda of the meeting also included regional circumstances and strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade and investment.

During the meeting, the delay in the issuance of visas to Pakistani students who are enrolled in Australian universities was brought to the attention of High Commissioner Hawkins.

Hawkins assured that the issue would be resolved quickly, and the High Commission is working to prevent further delays for Pakistani students in continuing their studies.

Both officials agreed to enhance cooperation between the countries, especially in trade and investment.

While Pakistan is going through an economic crisis, exploring new avenues of collaboration with Australia could potentially bring some relief to the country’s struggling economy.

On the other hand, Pakistan’s geostrategic location and untapped natural resources can be an attraction to potential investors.

Also Read: Meeting between Hina Rabbani and UN RC

The current regional situation was also part of the discussion. The High Commissioner appreciated Pakistan’s role in promoting peace and stability in the region.

He also emphasized the need for further efforts to improve the security situation to create a conducive environment for investment and economic growth.

Australia and Pakistan have always enjoyed longstanding and vibrant relations, and these kinds of meetings play a positive role in fostering relations and exploring more opportunities for coordination and cooperation.

The two countries have a lot of potential for collaboration in various sectors, and this meeting could pave the way for further partnerships and initiatives between them. It is important to recognize the contributions of Pakistani citizens in Australia and work towards building stronger ties between the two nations.

Australia a Popular Choice for Pakistani Students

Australia has become the second home for Pakistani students, accommodating more than 11,000 of them. The high quality of education and the vast range of scholarships offered by Australian universities play an important role in this regard.

Australia’s multicultural society and welcoming nature have long been drawcards for international students, including those from Pakistan. By studying in Australia, Pakistani students are able to gain exposure to diverse cultures and perspectives, which can significantly enhance their overall learning experience and personal growth.

Moreover, the fact that English is the primary language of instruction in Australian universities is a plus for Pakistani students, as most are already proficient in the language, making it easier for them to communicate and adapt to their new environment.

Australia, being a strong economy, has ample job opportunities, which makes it an attractive destination for Pakistani students seeking to enhance their career prospects.

These are some aspects that make it a popular destination for Pakistani students. These students also play an important role in cultural exchange, building people-to-people ties, and ultimately boosting the bilateral ties of both countries.