Second Round of Pakistan-New Zealand Bilateral Political Consultations

The Second round of Pakistan-New Zealand Bilateral Political Consultations between the Foreign Ministries of the two countries was held in Wellington, New Zealand on 5 June 2015. The Pakistan delegation was led by Mr. Afrasiab, Additional Secretary (Asia Pacific), while the New Zealand delegation was headed by Ms. Andrea Smith, Deputy Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Both sides reviewed the entire range of bilateral relations, including cooperation in political, trade& economic and education and agricultural sectors, and explored ways and means to further strengthen the existing friendly ties in all fields of importance. In addition, regional and global issues of mutual interest were also discussed during the consultations.

Mr. Afrasiab emphasized the need for expanding political engagement and people-to-people contacts between Pakistan and New Zealand. He urged the New Zealand side to facilitate student and business exchanges. Ms. Andrea Smith, Deputy Secretary expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s support for New Zealand’s membership of the UN Security Council seat for the term 2015-2016.

Earlier on 4 June, Mr. Afrasiab called on Mr. Mark Mitchell, Chairman, Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee; and Mr. David Shearer, Foreign Affairs Spokesman for the Labour Party in the New Zealand Parliament. He apprised them of recent political and economic developments in Pakistan.

During the visit, Additional Secretary Afrasiab also delivered talks on Pakistan’s Foreign Policy at the Asia-New Zealand Foundation and Asia Forum in Wellington.

Islamabad
5 June, 2015

217/2015