By Pervaiz Mughal
ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for ASEAN’s efforts to promote peace, stability, prosperity and sustainable development in the region.
In a message marking the 59th anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, Dar said Pakistan remained committed to working closely with ASEAN to advance a shared vision of a peaceful, prosperous and integrated region.
On behalf of the government and people of Pakistan, the deputy prime minister extended felicitations to ASEAN on the anniversary. He also congratulated ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn for his efforts to advance the organization’s agenda of regional cooperation, resilience and prosperity.
Dar said Pakistan’s relations with ASEAN were based on mutual respect, non-interference and constructive engagement. He described these principles as an important foundation for closer cooperation between Pakistan and the regional bloc.
He said Pakistan attached importance to its engagement with ASEAN and wanted to further expand cooperation in areas of mutual interest. These included trade, investment, education, culture and people-to-people contacts.
The deputy prime minister said stronger engagement between Pakistan and ASEAN could contribute to greater economic and social cooperation at a time when the region was facing a range of common challenges. He reaffirmed Islamabad’s readiness to work with ASEAN member states on issues that supported regional stability and sustainable development.
Dar’s message came as ASEAN marked its 59th anniversary, providing an opportunity for Pakistan to reiterate its commitment to closer engagement with Southeast Asia.
