Pakistan has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Pakistan ASEAN cooperation and its longstanding partnership with Southeast Asian countries. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar conveyed the message on the 59th ASEAN Day.
Ishaq Dar extended greetings and good wishes from the government and people of Pakistan to the governments and citizens of ASEAN member states. He also congratulated ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn for his efforts to promote regional cooperation, stability and prosperity.
The deputy prime minister said ASEAN Day reflects the spirit of unity, solidarity and cooperation that brings Southeast Asian nations together. Pakistan, he added, used the occasion to express solidarity with its ASEAN partners and renew its commitment to longstanding relations with the region.
Dar described ASEAN as an important model of regional integration and collective development. He said the organisation had made significant progress in economic development, social cohesion and diplomatic engagement, while Pakistan values its contribution to peace, stability and prosperity across the Asia-Pacific region.
According to Dar, Pakistan ASEAN cooperation is based on mutual respect, non-interference and constructive engagement. Pakistan has actively participated in various ASEAN dialogue mechanisms and remains committed to expanding cooperation in trade, investment, education, culture and people-to-people contacts.
He also highlighted Pakistan’s active participation in the ASEAN Regional Forum, where Islamabad contributes to collective efforts aimed at promoting regional peace, security and cooperation. The forum provides an important platform for dialogue on shared regional challenges.
Dar said ASEAN’s commitment to dialogue, mutual understanding and peaceful cooperation was particularly important amid growing global challenges and uncertainty. He stressed that mutual trust, inclusive dialogue and international cooperation remain essential to addressing common challenges and building a peaceful and prosperous region.
Pakistan, he added, fully supports ASEAN’s efforts to promote regional peace, stability, prosperity and sustainable development. Islamabad will continue close engagement with ASEAN to advance the shared vision of a peaceful, prosperous and integrated region, further strengthening Pakistan ASEAN cooperation.
