Manila: Senator Abdul Qadir, leading a parliamentary delegation from Pakistan, engaged in discussions with Sherwin Gatchalian, President of the Senate of the Philippines, during an official visit to Manila. The meeting, which included the presence of Senator Syed Waqar Mehdi, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the Philippines Dr. Asima Rabbani, and parliamentarians from the Philippine Senate, focused on enhancing bilateral relations and parliamentary cooperation.

According to Senate of Pakistan, Senator Abdul Qadir conveyed greetings from Chairman Senate of Pakistan Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani and extended an invitation to the Philippine Senate President to visit Pakistan. He expressed condolences for the recent floods in the Philippines and reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with the Filipino people.

During the meeting, Senator Abdul Qadir emphasized the role of parliamentary diplomacy, noting the establishment of Pakistan-Philippines Parliamentary Friendship Groups in both the Senate and the National Assembly of Pakistan. He encouraged the Philippine legislative bodies to formalize these ties, aiming to create a permanent framework for ongoing parliamentary engagement.

Both sides acknowledged the significance of increasing exchanges of parliamentary delegations and high-level visits to foster mutual understanding and strengthen cooperation between the two countries’ legislatures. They also discussed ways to enhance bilateral trade and investment through structured dialogue and explore new opportunities for commercial cooperation.

The Pakistani delegation’s visit was marked by a warm reception during a session of the Philippine Senate, signaling the growing friendship and enduring partnership between Pakistan and the Philippines.