ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari received credentials from six foreign envoys today, engaging in discussions aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and their respective countries. Ambassadors-designate from Cuba, Ethiopia, Portugal, Spain, and Tanzania, alongside the High Commissioner-designate from Singapore, presented their credentials in a formal ceremony in Islamabad.

According to Radio Pakistan, President Zardari extended congratulations to the envoys on assuming their diplomatic roles in Pakistan and expressed his best wishes for their tenures. He conveyed hope that their assignments would foster stronger bilateral relations and enhance cooperation in mutually beneficial areas.

In his meeting with Cuba’s Ambassador-designate Damian Cordero Torres, President Zardari reaffirmed the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Cuba, especially appreciating Cuba’s support in healthcare and education. He emphasized potential collaboration in health, biotechnology, and tourism, and acknowledged Cuba’s humanitarian aid during the 2005 earthquake as a lasting symbol of solidarity.

During discussions with Ethiopia’s Ambassador-designate Dr. Oumer Hussein Oba, President Zardari welcomed Ethiopia’s new embassy in Islamabad and the resumption of direct flights. He underscored the importance of increasing cooperation in trade, aviation, education, and technology.

Conversations with Portugal’s Ambassador-designate Paulo Miguel Guedes Domingues highlighted opportunities for expanding trade, investment, IT, agriculture, and the blue economy. The President noted the significant role of the Pakistani diaspora and the potential for labor mobility and academic exchanges.

Meeting Spain’s Ambassador-designate Carlos Aragón Gil de la Serna, President Zardari acknowledged the 75-year milestone of diplomatic relations, praised Spain’s commitment to multilateralism, and encouraged greater investment and cultural exchanges. He also commended Spain’s principled stance in the Gulf crisis as a reflection of its commitment to dialogue and international law adherence.

Speaking with Tanzania’s Ambassador-designate Lieutenant General retired Yacoub Hassan Mohamed, President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with Tanzania and the East African Community. He called for enhanced trade, investment, and technical cooperation, emphasizing the need for robust business linkages and people-to-people exchanges.

In talks with Singapore’s High Commissioner-designate Ishak Bin Ismail, President Zardari highlighted the significance of Singapore as a regional partner and discussed prospects for cooperation in trade, fintech, infrastructure, and services. He also pointed out the role of the Pakistani diaspora and the potential for collaboration in climate and digital economy initiatives.

The ceremony included a guard of honor for the envoys, with national anthems played and a parade reviewed before the presentation of credentials.