Islamabad: In a significant diplomatic engagement, Acting President Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani underscored Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its longstanding relationship with Syria, emphasizing shared history and mutual respect as foundational elements. This statement came during a meeting with Dr. Ramez Alraee, the Ambassador of the Syrian Arab Republic, at Aiwan-e-Sadr.

The dialogue between the two leaders reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing bilateral ties and collaborating on fostering regional peace and stability. President Gilani highlighted Pakistan’s consistent solidarity with Syria, even amid internal conflicts, as evidenced by maintaining its diplomatic presence in Damascus. This steadfast support has been pivotal, especially in international forums such as the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), where Pakistan actively advocated for Syria’s membership restoration.

Highlighting the deep-rooted historical connections between Damascus and Multan, Gilani noted the cultural and civilizational links that bind the two nations. He proposed that Pakistan’s skilled workforce could significantly aid Syria’s reconstruction efforts, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and technology. Furthermore, Pakistan is offering training and capacity-building opportunities to Syrian professionals in various domains.

In a gesture of camaraderie, Gilani extended an invitation for the Speaker of the Syrian Parliament to participate in the upcoming Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference. Ambassador Alraee expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s unwavering support and recognized the potential for expanded collaboration across various sectors, including defense and railways, while emphasizing the importance of fostering people-to-people connections.

These developments signify a renewed commitment to deepening cooperation between Pakistan and Syria, with both nations poised to explore new avenues for mutual benefit.