Liaquat Ali
Islamabad: Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani this week reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Bulgaria during a farewell meeting with outgoing Ambassador Irena Genadieva Gancheva at Parliament House.
The meeting focused on the full spectrum of Pakistan-Bulgaria relations, including parliamentary cooperation, economic engagement, regional developments, and avenues to expand people-to-people contacts.
Chairman Gilani congratulated Ambassador Gancheva on completing her diplomatic assignment in Pakistan and praised her efforts in advancing bilateral cooperation and deepening mutual understanding between the two countries.
He described Bulgaria as an important partner of Pakistan in Europe and reiterated that relations are grounded in mutual respect, goodwill, and shared positions on regional and international issues. He said Pakistan remains committed to further expanding engagement with Sofia across multiple sectors.
The Chairman also welcomed Bulgaria’s recent milestones, including its full membership of the Schengen Area and adoption of the Euro, and expressed confidence in its continued economic progress. He further reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Bulgaria’s aspirations to join the OECD.
Highlighting institutional mechanisms, Gilani called for the early convening of the third session of the Pakistan–Bulgaria Inter-Governmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, stressing the untapped potential in trade and investment ties.
He noted that Bulgaria has supported Pakistan’s GSP Plus status and expressed optimism for continued cooperation under the European Union’s evolving GSP+ framework.
Emphasizing parliamentary diplomacy, the Chairman said Friendship Groups in both legislatures have played a valuable role in strengthening ties and called for increased exchanges between parliamentarians to further deepen cooperation.
Briefing the envoy on the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC), Gilani highlighted its role in promoting dialogue on peace, security, and development, and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to constructive regional diplomacy.
He also underscored Senate initiatives on women’s empowerment, minority rights, and youth engagement, reaffirming that inclusive development remains central to Pakistan’s democratic agenda. He paid tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto.
Ambassador Gancheva appreciated Pakistan’s efforts for peace and stability and thanked the Senate leadership for its support during her tenure.
Gilani expressed gratitude for the ambassador’s services and reaffirmed Pakistan’s desire to further strengthen cooperation with Bulgaria and the European Union in education, youth development, women’s empowerment, and economic collaboration.
