ROME: Italy and Pakistan have agreed to enhance bilateral relations in diverse areas including trade and economy; regional peace and security; as well as countering extremism and terrorism. In this regard, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz, and Italian Foreign Minister Paolo Gentiloni held a bilateral meeting at Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Friday
Both sides agreed to work together to enhance their trade relations and promote agriculture cooperation. The Italian foreign minister expressed hope that Italy’s cooperation in agriculture, social development and culture will further strengthen existing bilateral relations. It was also decided to establish Pakistan-Italy Cultural Council to promote culture interaction between the two countries.
Both of them expressed satisfaction over positive trajectory of Pakistan-Italy bilateral relations. Aziz briefed his Italian counterpart on Pakistan’s economic progress and government’s successful efforts to overcome the energy crisis. He noted that the Italian economy in the last two years had performed remarkably well which has widened the scope for economic interaction between the two countries and enhanced the prospects of Italian investment in Pakistan.
Aziz also briefed the minister on the government of Pakistan initiatives for regional peace and stability, and its strong commitment to maintaining cordial relations with all neighbouring countries. Regional and international situation also came up for discussion. Both sides expressed satisfaction over their cooperation in the United Nations and other multilateral forums. As members of the Uniting for Consensus (UfC) Group, Pakistan and Italy work closely and have similar positions on the issue of Security Council reforms.
Both sides believed that the Security Council reforms should increase the representation of developing countries and engage in democratic consultations to seek a comprehensive solution that accommodates the interests and concerns of all UN member states and enjoys extensive support. The Italian Foreign Minister acknowledged the positive contribution being made by Pakistan for the regional peace and security, and reassured his country’s continued support in all areas of mutual interest.
