ISLAMABAD, Oct 05 (APP): Pakistan and Belarus have agreed to forge their multi-dimensional cooperation including trade, industry, agriculture, science and technology and education.
The understanding came during talks between the delegations of the two countries, led by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and the visiting President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko in Islamabad on Wednesday.
In their joint press take out after the talks, the two leaders said they discussed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and agreed to strengthen cooperation in all fields.
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said the concrete outcome of the visit was signing of a joint statement reaffirming commitment of the two countries to further develop bilateral relations in all areas. He said both sides signed fourteen agreement and MoUs in the fields of trade, finance, science and technology, vocational training, education and culture. The two countries also exchanged notes on three instruments of ratification enabling entry into force of relevant agreements in trade and other areas. He said these agreements would go a long way in promoting and facilitating trade and investment to mutual benefit of the two countries.
Mian Nawaz Sharif expressed the confidence that interaction between the business community of the two countries at today’s business and investment forum would leverage opportunities for joint ventures and business deals.
He said Pakistan and Belarus also exchanged views on regional and global issues. He thanked Belarus President for his understanding and support on issues of interest to Pakistan.
President Alexander Lukashenko expressed pleasure that Pakistan was eager to promote ties with Pakistan in all fields.
He said the two countries have agreed to cooperate in industry and nuclear energy.
The distinguished guest said Pakistan and Belarus have reaffirmed the necessity of further development of cooperation in science and technology. He noted with satisfaction that the two sides have established a joint research centre in Islamabad.
He underlined the need for exchange of visits to forge cooperation in industrial and agricultural fields. He also emphasized the need for direct aviation links between the two countries in order to stimulate bilateral relations.
Referring to the prevailing regional environment, he said Belarus wants peaceful resolution of all issues.
He extended an invitation to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to visit Belarus.
APP/Zaheer/VNS, Islamabad
