Global Rice News

Australia and Pakistan Strengthen Bilateral Relations on Australia Day

ISLAMABAD – Australia’s High Commissioner in Pakistan, Neil Hawkins, celebrated Australia Day with a lively reception in Spring, highlighting the enduring bonds between Australia and Pakistan.

Pakistan’s Federal Minister of Commerce, Jam Mir Kamal Khan Alyani, graced the event as the chief guest and emphasized the need for further strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.

Minister Alyani acknowledged the friendly political, economic, and defense ties between Australia and Pakistan, noting that Pakistan attaches great importance and priority to its long-standing and growing relationship with Australia.

He also highlighted Australia’s role as an important development partner for Pakistan, providing support in various areas.

The minister mentioned that the bilateral trade volume between Australia and Pakistan has reached $1 billion and emphasized that there is still untapped potential for further growth in trade between the two countries.

He mentioned that Pakistan exports textiles, rice, surgical, sports, and steel products to Australia, while importing canola oil, chickpeas, pulses, corn, and raw materials from the country.

The minister expressed the need for improvement in areas of cooperation, particularly in the agricultural sector. He also shared Pakistan’s interest in enhancing mango exports to Australia.

Minister Alyani acknowledged the contribution of the Pakistani diaspora living in Australia, mentioning that there are 200,000 Pakistanis who are actively contributing to the development of both countries.

Shared Values and Collaborations

In his speech, High Commissioner Hawkins emphasized the longstanding relationship between Australia and Pakistan and the mutual desire to capitalize on the dynamism of the two countries.

He highlighted the shared characteristics of Australia and Pakistan, such as their youthful populations, ancient civilizations, federal governance systems, rich cultural diversity, fragile ecosystems, and diverse biodiversity.

High Commissioner Hawkins reiterated Australia’s commitment to supporting a democratic, inclusive, prosperous, and stable Pakistan in line with its Constitution. He particularly emphasized the importance of gender equality and expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with Pakistan to empower women and girls.

Hawkins mentioned the 40-year collaboration between the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research and Pakistan, which has supported the development of the agricultural sector and the adoption of sustainable water management practices to address the impacts of climate change. He also mentioned the collaborative efforts between respective police agencies.

Hawkins expressed confidence in the strong ties fostered by the 100,000 Australian-Pakistanis and Pakistani Australian alumni. He highlighted Australia’s increasing engagement in Pakistan’s mining sector and the development of its dairy industry.

A Commemoration of Friendship

The Australia Day celebration brought together various friends of Australia, including politicians, officials, diplomats, media representatives, businesses, development partners, and colleagues. The event served as a testament to the enduring friendship and cooperation between Australia and Pakistan.

Source: en.wenews.pk