Bilateral Political Consultations between Pakistan and Switzerland

The 9th round of Bilateral Political Consultations between Pakistan and Switzerland was held on 25 November 2016 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ambassador Zaheer A. Janjua, Additional Secretary (Europe) led the Pakistan side while the Swiss delegation was led by Ambassador Johannes Matyassy, Assistant Secretary of State for Asia and Pacific.

The two sides reviewed the whole spectrum of bilateral relations and identified opportunities and possibilities for further strengthening bilateral cooperation, especially in commercial and development sectors. The two sides discussed evolving peace and security environment in the region. International issues of mutual interest also came under discussion. It was also agreed to enhance cooperation between Pakistan and Switzerland at the United Nations and other multilateral fora.

Earlier, the delegation called on Mr. Sartaj Aziz, Adviser to Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs. The Adviser underlined the importance Pakistan attaches to its relations with Switzerland and the need for expanding commercial ties between the two countries. The Adviser also briefed the Swiss delegation about the grave human rights situation in the Indian Occupied Kashmir and the escalation triggered by India along the LoC and the working boundary.

Pakistan and Switzerland enjoy close cooperation in bilateral matters and multilateral forums. Switzerland is an important development partner of Pakistan. The mechanism of Annual Bilateral Political Consultations between Pakistan and Switzerland reviews bilateral relations and discusses the future areas of cooperation. The last session was held in Bern on 8 November 2014.

Islamabad
25 November, 2016

600/2016