Celina Ali
Islamabad: Pakistan this week reaffirmed its commitment to further strengthening its longstanding relationship with France and enhancing cooperation on regional and international issues, as President Asif Ali Zardari extended warm greetings to French President Emmanuel Macron and the people of France on the occasion of Bastille Day.
In a message marking France’s National Day, President Zardari said Pakistan attached great importance to its enduring friendship and broad-based partnership with France, describing bilateral ties as being rooted in mutual respect, shared democratic values and a common commitment to peace, sustainable development and the principles of international law.
The president said relations between Pakistan and France had evolved into a multifaceted partnership encompassing political dialogue, trade and investment, development cooperation, education, culture and collaboration in multilateral forums. He noted that the two countries have maintained regular engagement over the years and continue to work together on a range of bilateral and global issues.
Reaffirming Islamabad’s commitment to further deepening cooperation, President Zardari said Pakistan looked forward to expanding collaboration with France in areas of mutual interest while strengthening coordination at regional and international forums to address shared challenges and promote global peace and stability.
He expressed confidence that the close cooperation between Islamabad and Paris would continue to grow, opening new avenues for mutually beneficial partnerships and fostering stronger people-to-people contacts. He added that enhanced engagement would contribute to greater economic opportunities, sustainable development and the prosperity and well-being of both nations.
President Zardari also conveyed his best wishes to President Macron and the French people, expressing hope for France’s continued progress and prosperity while reaffirming Pakistan’s desire to build on the strong foundations of bilateral relations in the years ahead.
