Islamabad (TDI): President Asif Ali Zardari has lauded the contributions of Neil Hawkins, the outgoing Australian High Commissioner, for his role in strengthening Pakistan–Australia relations during his tenure.
In a farewell meeting at Aiwan-e-Sadr, President Zardari commended Hawkins’ efforts in advancing bilateral cooperation across political, economic, and defense domains, while also fostering deeper people-to-people exchanges between the two nations.
President Zardari noted that Pakistan and Australia have long enjoyed friendly and cooperative relations, supported by shared interests and mutual respect. He said the two countries must continue to build on their partnership.
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On economic ties, President Zardari said that while bilateral trade is growing, it still falls short of its true potential.
He emphasized the need to intensify efforts to expand bilateral trade and investment opportunities.
The High Commissioner informed the President about his recent visit to Sindh and briefed him on the ongoing cooperation between Pakistan and Australia in the fields of agriculture and climate change.
He said that he and his family are carrying fond memories of Pakistan, especially the warmth and hospitality of its people.
Read More: Australia Empowers Pakistani Youth Through Scholarships: Hawkins
Hawkins also remarked that Pakistan’s impressive ethnic, linguistic, religious, and culinary diversity makes the country dynamic and vibrant.
Wishing Hawkins success in his future endeavours, President Zardari said he hoped the High Commissioner would take with him warm memories of Pakistan and its people.
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.
