Manila: A Pakistani parliamentary delegation visited the Senate of the Republic of the Philippines, where they were received by Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian. The visit underscored the cordial relations between the two countries and highlighted their commitment to enhancing parliamentary diplomacy and institutional cooperation.

According to Senate of Pakistan, the delegation, which included Senator Khalida Ateeb, Senator Husna Bano, Senator Rahat Jamali, and Advisor to the Chairman Senate Ms. Misbah Khar, observed the proceedings of the Senate. Ms. Khar extended congratulations to the Philippines on 76 years of diplomatic relations and expressed appreciation for its support in Pakistan’s engagement with ASEAN. Both parties emphasized the importance of expanding parliamentary exchanges through friendship groups, committee-level cooperation, and participation in regional and international forums.

In discussions with Senate President Gatchalian, Ms. Khar conveyed Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani’s vision for parliamentary diplomacy, highlighting the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC) and the Islamabad Communiqué. The meeting explored opportunities to enhance bilateral trade, investment, education, tourism, and cultural exchanges, with a focus on sectors such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals, halal food, and information technology.

Senate President Gatchalian expressed optimism about the growing engagement between the two countries, suggesting that stronger parliamentary cooperation could deepen their longstanding friendship. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to closer collaboration in defence, counter-terrorism, regional peace, and multilateral cooperation.

The meeting concluded with a shared resolve to expand cooperation across parliamentary, political, economic, educational, and cultural spheres for mutual benefit.