Dar holds talks with European counterparts at UNGA in New York

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held separate meetings with his Austrian, Hungarian, Bulgarian and Greek counterparts in New York on Wednesday to discuss bilateral relations and regional and global developments.

The meetings took place on the sidelines of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, where Dar is representing Pakistan in a series of diplomatic engagements.

During his meeting with Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger, the two sides expressed satisfaction with the progress in Pakistan-Austria relations and agreed to further expand cooperation in trade, investment, education, economic affairs and people-to-people contacts.

The two foreign ministers also discussed regional and international issues, including the situation in the Middle East. Dar emphasised the importance of dialogue, diplomacy and peaceful settlement of disputes in line with the UN Charter and international law.

The Austrian foreign minister acknowledged Pakistan’s role in efforts aimed at promoting regional peace and stability and highlighted the need for continued diplomatic engagement to address international challenges.

Dar also stressed the importance of fully implementing the Islamabad MoU by all parties.

Pakistan-Hungary ties discussed

In a separate meeting, Dar held talks with Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orbán and congratulated her on assuming office.

The two ministers reaffirmed their intention to strengthen bilateral relations and expand cooperation in political, economic, trade, investment and education sectors.

They also discussed opportunities for stronger business and people-to-people links. Both sides agreed that regular bilateral consultations would help maintain momentum in their engagement.

Dar reiterated Pakistan’s position that dialogue and diplomacy remain essential for addressing regional challenges. He also stressed the importance of all parties returning to the Islamabad MoU.

The two sides agreed to remain in close contact on issues of mutual interest.

Dar reviews ties with Bulgaria

Dar also met Bulgarian Foreign Minister Velislava Petrova-Chamova, with the two sides reviewing the broader relationship between Pakistan and Bulgaria.

They expressed a desire to strengthen political and economic engagement through more frequent interaction and cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

The ministers also exchanged views on regional and global developments. Dar reiterated Pakistan’s support for diplomatic efforts to resolve outstanding regional disputes.

Both sides agreed to remain engaged and explore opportunities to expand bilateral cooperation.

Greece appreciates Pakistan’s regional role

During his meeting with Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis, Dar discussed ways to further strengthen Pakistan-Greece relations.

Gerapetritis appreciated Pakistan’s role in supporting regional peace and stability and acknowledged its increasing diplomatic engagement internationally.

The two sides agreed to focus on expanding trade, investment and business-to-business cooperation. The Greek foreign minister also highlighted the contribution of the Pakistani community in Greece.

The ministers discussed regional and global developments, including disruptions to energy supply chains. They emphasised the importance of ensuring uninterrupted maritime movement.