Islamabad (TDI): The Philippines is showing growing interest in deepening economic engagement with Pakistan, with several business groups keen to explore investment and trade opportunities, Ambassador Emmanuel R. Fernandez said during a meeting at Parliament House this week.
The remarks came during a session of the Pakistan–Philippines Parliamentary Friendship Group, chaired by Senator Husna Bano and attended by members of the Senate and officials from the Philippine Embassy, including First Secretary and Consul Jaun Paolo Alex.
Also present were Senator Fawzia Arshad, advisor to the Senate chairman Misbah Khar, and senior members from the Senate Secretariat.
Senator Husna Bano welcomed the guests warmly and emphasized the importance of building stronger ties, especially in trade and the IT sector.
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She reaffirmed Pakistan’s interest in deepening economic cooperation and enhancing expertise-sharing in the technology sector.
Supporting these views, Misbah Khar underscored the need for institutional collaboration in bilateral and constitutional policy frameworks.
She also highlighted trade, tourism, and cultural exchange as key areas for building long-term partnership.
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Ambassador Fernandez touched on the topic of visa facilitation, saying his embassy had sent recommendations to ease access, though final decisions rest with Manila’s immigration authorities.
He also acknowledged the increasing number of Pakistani students heading to the Philippines for education, saying, “They’re doing well and we’d like to expand this exchange.”
Senator Fawzia Arshad, meanwhile, highlighted Pakistan’s push toward artificial intelligence and vocational education.
She said youth development and entrepreneurship are national priorities.
“We need to equip our people and for that, international cooperation is key,” she stated.
Sohail Majeed
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
