Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday welcomed the positive trajectory of Pakistan-Australia relations and underscored the importance of expanding bilateral trade and investment, particularly in the agriculture and livestock sectors, which he described as promising areas for enhanced cooperation.
The prime minister expressed these views during a meeting with the newly appointed Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Tim Kane, who paid a courtesy call on him in Islamabad. According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister Office (PMO), Shehbaz Sharif congratulated the high commissioner on his appointment and expressed confidence that his tenure would further strengthen the long-standing and friendly ties between Pakistan and Australia.
The prime minister also welcomed Australian interest in Pakistan’s mining and minerals sector, highlighting the Reko Diq project as a shining example of the country’s vast potential in this area. He noted that greater collaboration in mining could open new avenues for economic growth and foreign investment.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz conveyed his deepest condolences over the tragic loss of innocent lives in the terrorist shooting at Bondi Beach, Sydney, on December 14. He said Pakistan unequivocally condemned the cowardly act of terrorism and stood in solidarity with the people and government of Australia in their hour of grief.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s stance against terrorism, the prime minister stressed that terrorism has no religion and must be condemned in all its forms and manifestations. He emphasized the need for collective global action to eradicate the menace.
Shehbaz Sharif also lauded the valuable contribution of the Pakistani diaspora in Australia, describing it as a vital bridge between the two nations. He noted that strong people-to-people ties and cultural linkages form the backbone of bilateral relations, further strengthened by the shared passion for cricket in both countries.
The prime minister conveyed his warm regards to the Australian leadership and said he looked forward to working closely with them to further deepen cooperation and friendship between Pakistan and Australia.
High Commissioner Tim Kane thanked the prime minister for the warm welcome and expressed Australia’s strong desire to enhance relations with Pakistan across all areas of mutual interest.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi, and Foreign Secretary Amna Baloch were also present at the meeting.
