Australia-Pakistan ties poised to grow, says High Commissioner Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri
Canberra: Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Australia, H.E. Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri, has highlighted the steady evolution of Australia-Pakistan relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1947.
Speaking on the subject recently, he emphasized that the relationship, once primarily shaped by Commonwealth ties and Cold War-era cooperation, has since expanded to encompass trade, education, defense, and counterterrorism.
“Australia and Pakistan share a history of diplomatic engagement that has deepened over time, evolving into a multifaceted partnership based on mutual interests in regional security, economic growth, and people-to-people connections,” Chaudhri stated.
He noted that while Australia’s early engagement with South Asia was limited, both nations have since found common ground in fostering economic cooperation and security collaboration. Education has also emerged as a vital pillar of the relationship, with thousands of Pakistani students choosing Australia for higher education each year.
Looking ahead, Chaudhri expressed optimism about the future of bilateral ties but acknowledged the need to navigate regional complexities. “As Australia redefines its role in the Indo-Pacific and Pakistan continues to position itself strategically within South Asia, both countries must work together to address shared challenges such as climate change, economic development, and regional stability,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of expanding cultural and educational exchanges to strengthen people-to-people ties, which remain a cornerstone of the relationship.
High Commissioner Chaudhri reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Australia. “The potential for a stronger and more resilient relationship between our nations remains immense. With sustained engagement and mutual understanding, we can build a future that benefits both our countries and our people.”
H.E. Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri is a seasoned diplomat currently serving as Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Australia, with concurrent accreditation to Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and Nauru. He has held several prominent positions, including Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Additional Foreign Secretary for the Asia Pacific, and diplomatic postings in Washington D.C., London, and Paris. He is an alumnus of American University, University College London, and the National Defense University in Washington D.C.
