ISLAMABAD: Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has called for stronger Pakistan-Australia relations through expanded parliamentary exchanges, trade and investment, education, defence cooperation and people-to-people contacts.
He made the remarks during a meeting with Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, H.E. Timothy Kane, at Parliament House, Islamabad.
Chairman Gilani said Pakistan highly values its longstanding and cordial relations with Australia and highlighted shared democratic values, Commonwealth traditions, bicameral parliamentary systems and strong people-to-people linkages between the two countries.
He also appreciated Australia’s contribution to Pakistan’s development, particularly in education and human resource development, and acknowledged the role of the Pakistani diaspora in Australia’s social and economic development.
During the meeting, Chairman Gilani briefed the Australian High Commissioner on the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC), of which he is the Founding Chairman.
He said the first ISC was held in Pakistan, the second in Cambodia, while the third conference is scheduled to take place in Indonesia in February 2027.
The two sides also exchanged views on the upcoming election for the Presidency of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and discussed matters related to inter-parliamentary cooperation.
Highlighting the potential for deeper economic engagement, Chairman Gilani called for greater collaboration in agri-tech, renewable energy, fintech, minerals, textiles, IT services and food products.
He also stressed the importance of stronger links between the business communities and chambers of commerce of Pakistan and Australia.
Chairman Gilani further called for enhanced cooperation in higher education, scholarships, joint research, climate change, disaster management, cybersecurity, maritime security and peacekeeping.
He underscored the importance of constructive diplomacy, respect for international law and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
Australian High Commissioner Timothy Kane expressed Australia’s desire to further strengthen bilateral and parliamentary cooperation with Pakistan and appreciated Chairman Gilani’s efforts to promote closer ties between the two countries.
Ambassador to ISC and Advisor to Chairman Senate Ms. Misbah Khar was also present during the meeting.