4th Round of Pakistan-Australia Bilateral Political Consultations

Fourth round of Bilateral Political Consultations between Pakistan and Australia was held on May 16, 2014 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Islamabad. Pakistan side was led by Mr. Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry, Secretary for Foreign Affairs while the Australian side was led by Mr. Peter Varghese, Secretary for Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The Consultations were held in a friendly and cordial atmosphere. Whole range of Pakistan-Australia bilateral relations were covered during the talks. Progress was reviewed since June 14, 2012 when the last round of BPC was held in Canberra.

The process was initiated in March 2006 in Islamabad when the first BPC was held. The Political Consultations are instrumental in enhancing Pakistan’s ties with Australia in all spheres especially at strategic and economic level.

Mr. Peter Varghese appreciated Pakistan’s role and efforts in combating terrorism and expressed his desire to further develop mutually beneficial and long term relations with Pakistan.

Secretary Varghese called on Mr Sartaj Aziz, Advisor to Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs. The need for further enhancing the trade and economic ties was underlined during the meeting.

Secretary Varghese visited the National Police Academy, Islamabad. He called on Mr. Mushahid Hussain, Chairman Standing Committee on Defence and Foreign Affairs. He had a constructive meeting with Mr. Ishaq Dar, Minister for Finance and shared views on promoting economic ties between the two countries.

It was agreed that the next round of Bilateral Political consultations will be held in Canberra in 2015.

Islamabad
16th May, 2014

129/2014