Islamabad: In a significant diplomatic engagement, Pakistan and Mongolia have agreed to establish a Joint Ministerial Commission to enhance cooperation across various sectors, including trade, tourism, agriculture, and mining. This agreement was reached during discussions between Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan and his Mongolian counterpart, Luvsannamsrain Oyun-Erdene, on the sidelines of the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Prime Minister Sharif expressed enthusiasm about working closely with Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene to strengthen bilateral relations and explore new avenues of cooperation, emphasizing trade, investment, and cultural exchanges. He warmly welcomed the Mongolian Prime Minister’s visit, marking it as a new chapter in the countries’ relations, characterized by mutual respect and goodwill.

The Pakistani leader also congratulated Oyun-Erdene on his re-election and proposed several initiatives to deepen ties, including inviting Mongolian civil servants for training in Pakistan and designating 2025 as the “Pakistan-Mongolia Friendship Year” to celebrate and enhance the brotherly relations between the two nations.

On his part, Prime Minister Oyun-Erdene lauded Pakistan for its successful hosting of the SCO meeting and acknowledged Pakistan’s leadership within the organization. He echoed the sentiment of strengthening bilateral relations through joint efforts and collaboration.

Furthermore, the leaders agreed on the establishment of an inter-parliamentary union to foster closer parliamentary relations. In a symbolic gesture underscoring the growing friendship, the Mongolian Prime Minister planted a sapling in the lawn of the Prime Minister’s House.