Foreign Secretary talks with Tajikistan’s Deputy Foreign Minister.

Pakistan and Tajikistan on Tuesday agreed to fast-track the finalization of various bilateral agreements. Also, Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in order to further institutionalize cooperation in diverse fields.

It is the 5th Round of Bilateral Political Consultations (BPC) between Pakistan and Tajikistan. Co-chaired by Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood with First Deputy Foreign Minister Khusrav Noziri in virtual mode.

The two sides discussed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations in political, security, economic and trade, science and technology, education, culture, and connectivity as well as cooperation at international and regional fora, a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here said.

The Foreign Secretary expressed satisfaction at the growing pace of mutual cooperation over the past three decades

He stressed the importance of augmenting multi-dimensional bilateral cooperation. Within the framework of a strategic partnership for mutual peace, progress, and prosperity.

The Foreign Secretary expressed deep concern on the rising challenge of COVID-19 amid the third wave. He emphasized international cooperation and solidarity to effectively combat challenges posed by the pandemic and to adopt joint measures.

He underscored the importance of holding regular political dialogue. As well as high-level and parliamentary interactions to deepen mutual cooperation and ensure regular follow-up.

Also, read Russian minister in Islamabad.

It was agreed to hold the next meeting of the Pakistan-Tajikistan Inter-Governmental Commission and Joint Working Group on Education & Science and Technology at an early date.

The Foreign Secretary highlighted the government’s socio-economic agenda and shift in focus from geo-politics to geo-economics.

Moreover, he said that the government aimed at leveraging Pakistan’s immense potential of regional connectivity through the development of China’s Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Also, providing the shortest possible route from Central Asia to the Arabian Sea through Pakistani seaports.