Pakistan and Myanmar have taken significant steps to revitalize their bilateral relationship, emphasizing a commitment to sustained and structured diplomatic engagement after a period of limited high-level interactions.
Renewed Commitment to Multi-Sector Cooperation
During delegation-level talks held in Islamabad, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and Myanmar’s Union Minister for Foreign Affairs Than Swe expressed their intent to broaden cooperation across various fields. These include religious tourism, people-to-people and cultural exchanges, trade, economic collaboration, scientific research, and academic partnerships aimed at fostering shared prosperity.
Highlights from the Discussions
- DPM Dar described the discussions as productive and comprehensive, emphasizing the need for sustained, structured, and results-oriented initiatives, especially in capacity building.
- He highlighted the significance of Myanmar’s foreign minister’s visit as a reflection of the mutual importance both countries place on strengthening ties.
- Dar reaffirmed the cordial and friendly nature of Pakistan-Myanmar relations and expressed Pakistan’s eagerness to enhance cooperation across multiple mutually beneficial sectors.
- He underscored the importance of resolving contentious issues through dialogue and diplomacy and stressed deepening academic linkages.
- Noting a gap in high-level visits, Dar recalled that Myanmar’s last visit to Pakistan was in 2015, while Pakistan’s last visit to Myanmar was in 2012.
- He also expressed hope that Myanmar’s upcoming general elections would contribute to peace, stability, development, and inclusive governance.
Myanmar’s Perspective
Foreign Minister Than Swe thanked Pakistan for its warm hospitality and recalled the historical ties established soon after independence, inspired by leaders Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and General Aung San. He noted that 2026 marks the 77th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries and expressed optimism about further strengthening cooperation across multiple sectors.
Broader Context of Relations
Earlier in the day, both delegations reviewed the full scope of bilateral relations and exchanged views on regional and international peace and security. The two leaders agreed to maintain close communication on issues of mutual interest moving forward.
