ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Sweden convened their 17th round of Bilateral Political Consultations in Stockholm on Friday and reviewed the entire range of bilateral relations, including political, economic, investment, trade and education.
The Pakistani delegation, led by Additional Foreign Secretary (Europe) Ambassador Shafqat Ali Khan, engaged with counterparts from Sweden, co-led by Director General and Head of Global Department Dag Juhlin-Dannfelt and Acting Head of Department for Asia and the Pacific Oscar Schlyte of the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The two sides expressed confidence in the trajectory of bilateral cooperation noting that next year, Pakistan and Sweden would celebrate the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.
They also agreed to promote bilateral dialogue and foster mutually beneficial engagement and cooperation.
The Additional Foreign Secretary congratulated Sweden on successfully completing its term of EU Presidency this year and expressed Pakistan’s desire to enhance further collaboration in areas such as renewable energy, sustainable technologies,information communication technology, waste management and rehabilitation and development.
He welcomed more Swedish companies to take advantage of the business-friendly environment in Pakistan, the Foreign Office said in a statement.
The Swedish delegation reiterated its dedication to establishing a comprehensive bilateral relationship grounded in robust economic and political cooperation. Both sides engaged in discussions on crucial regional and global developments.
Ambassador Shafqat Ali Khan provided insights into the security situation in South Asia, particularly in Afghanistan and India, underscoring human rights violations in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The Swedish side shared updates on the EU Presidency, the Nordic region, and efforts to combat Islamophobia while promoting interfaith harmony.
Expressing satisfaction with their collaboration at international forums, including the UN, both parties pledged to continue supporting each other. They also agreed to maintain close communication to sustain the positive momentum in bilateral relations.
Ambassador Shafqat Khan held discussions with State Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Jan Knuttson, during the visit. The next round of Pakistan-Sweden Bilateral Political Consultations is scheduled to take place in Islamabad. —APP
