ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing high-level engagements and bilateral cooperation with Belarus, with a focus on strengthening economic, trade, and investment ties.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Belarusian Foreign Minister Sergei Aleinik after a bilateral meeting, Bilawal described their meeting as fruitful and constructive, encompassing discussions on various areas of cooperation between the two countries.
The foreign minister emphasized the long-term goals for Pakistan-Belarus relations, which include bolstering economic ties, expanding trade and investment, fostering scientific collaboration, enhancing defense cooperation, and deepening cultural and people-to-people contacts.
Bilawal expressed the intention of both nations to develop a mutually beneficial relationship that contributes to the prosperity and well-being of their respective peoples. Practical steps will be taken to transform the goodwill between the two countries into tangible cooperation.
Pakistan and Belarus Sign Agreements
Highlighting a significant outcome of the visit, Bilawal announced the signing of an agreement between Pakistan and Belarus for the abolition of visas for holders of diplomatic and official passports, which will facilitate high-level visits and strengthen diplomatic ties. Furthermore, an agreement between the Islamabad Strategic Institute and the Belarus Institute will lay a strong foundation for educational cooperation.
Bilawal emphasized that the discussions held during the 6th ministerial meeting will serve as a basis for further progress. He also highlighted the upcoming celebration of the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Belarus in 2024, expressing confidence in further strengthening the bilateral relationship.
In his remarks, Belarusian Foreign Minister Sergei Aleinik expressed gratitude to Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for the invitation and commended the constructive and frank nature of their meeting. He reiterated the desire of both countries to strengthen their mutually beneficial ties, emphasizing Belarus’s consideration of further investment in Pakistan, including the establishment of a vehicles and tractor manufacturing factory.
Aleinik acknowledged Pakistan as a reliable partner in South Asia and the Muslim world and praised the consistent policy of the Government of Belarus to enhance bilateral cooperation in diverse fields. He expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen its economy and enhance its global image. The Belarusian minister emphasized Belarus’s commitment to defending its sovereignty and independence in foreign policy, opposing any interference in the internal affairs of sovereign states. He also expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s support to Belarus at international fora.
