President Lukashenko Hails Visit as a “Milestone” in Bilateral Relations
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral trade and economic cooperation during a meeting at the Prime Minister’s House on Tuesday.
Key Focus Areas
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warmly welcomed President Lukashenko, highlighting the importance of Pakistan’s relations with Belarus. He expressed optimism that the visit would open new opportunities for collaboration in key sectors. The discussions centered on:
- Political and economic ties.
- Defence and trade partnerships.
- Regional and global cooperation.
Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress in their decade-long relationship and agreed to expedite the implementation of previously signed agreements.
Strategic Agreements and MoUs
The visit saw the exchange of 16 significant agreements and MoUs, aimed at fostering collaboration across various sectors:
- Science and Technology: Strengthening research and innovation partnerships.
- Anti-Money Laundering: Enhanced cooperation to combat financial crimes.
- Environmental and Disaster Management: Collaborative efforts to address climate challenges.
- Road Transport and Accreditation: Streamlining trade logistics and certification standards.
- Technical Education and Financial Intelligence: Capacity building and institutional exchange.
These agreements reflect a shared resolve to deepen institutional ties and address mutual challenges.
Business Forum Drives Momentum
The Pakistan-Belarus Business Forum in Islamabad witnessed the signing of eight business-to-business MoUs. Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan emphasized untapped potential in sectors like energy, agriculture, telecommunications, and ICT.
Belarusian Energy Minister Alexei Kushna-Renko underlined mutual demands for products such as agricultural machinery, petrochemicals, and dairy items, while urging increased market access for Pakistani exports like surgical instruments, light industrial goods, and food products.
Strengthening Future Collaboration
The high-profile visit, featuring a 68-member Belarusian delegation, paves the way for robust economic ties. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to advancing this partnership through strategic initiatives and actionable plans.
