KARACHI: Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari emphasised importance of peaceful resolution of disputes and conflicts through dialogue and engagements and that Pakistan is ready to support peace initiative for lasting stability in region.

Speaking at joint presser with his Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba here, Bilawal Bhutto said as country in volatile region, we understand how longstanding regional conflicts can endanger our collective security. He said Ukrainian War has also brought difficulties for redeveloping countries in global arena, particularly in terms of fuel, food and fertilizer shortages and Pakistan is no exception. He said Pakistan has great interest in promoting peace and reconciliation as well as peaceful resolution of disputes through dialogue and diplomacy.

Bilawal appreciated Ukrainian government for its principled stance in supporting resolution on countering religious hatred, consistent incitements to discrimination, hostilities and violence at Human Rights Council in Geneva. He expressed confidence that our joint efforts to strengthen bilateral relationship will be beneficial for people of both countries. He said we resolve to move forward in fostering cooperation and friendship between people of Pakistan and Ukraine.

He said we aspire to build mutually beneficial relationship that contributes to prosperity and wellbeing of our nations. He said we agreed on importance of regular dialogue and engagement to further strengthen our bilateral ties. It was also agreed to hold meeting of various institutional mechanisms in due course.

 Bilawal expressed deep concern and offered Islamabad’s condolences on loss of precious lives and immense human sufferings. He said despite our own economic challenges, Pakistan has sent humanitarian assistance as gesture of solidarity with people. He hoped that peace will prevail so that people of Ukraine and Russia can enjoy peace dividends. Ukrainian Foreign Minister said we are thinking of boosting trade and solving existing problems of Pakistani students studying in Ukraine. He said Ukraine can offer digitalisation of state services to make government more convenient to engage with its own citizens. He said we will be looking forward to hold inaugural meeting of Pakistan-Ukraine commission on economic cooperation. He said Ukraine considers Pakistan a good partner and is ready to work in area of food security. Foreign Minister thanked Pakistan’s humanitarian assistance for people of Pakistan. During delegation-level talks at Foreign Office, Pakistani side was led by Bilawal Bhutto while Ukrainian side by Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba. Two sides discussed cooperation in diverse fields. Dmytro Kuleba denied media reports claiming that Pakistan was supplying arms to Kyiv amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.

Published in The Daily National Courier, July, 21 2023

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