NEW YORK: The Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi met with the Foreign Minister of Ireland Simon Coveney on the sidelines of the 76th UN General Assembly session in New York.
The two foreign ministers exchanged views on the latest developments in Afghanistan, Pakistan-Ireland bilateral relations, as well as cooperation in the United Nations.
Met with FM @simoncoveney today on the sidelines of #UNGA. Pakistan values our long-standing relations with the Republic of Ireland & believe there to be considerable potential to cement these further across trade, investment, enviornment, health, renewable energy and more. 🇵🇰 🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/Hn9aA8r5LC
— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) September 22, 2021
The Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that Pakistan highly values its relations with Ireland, bilaterally as well as in the context of the UN and the European Union (EU).
Qureshi congratulated Foreign Minister Coveney on the successful conduct of Ireland’s Presidency of the UN Security Council for the month of September. He expressed appreciation for Ireland’s open and inclusive approach that was displayed in the invitation to Pakistan to address the UN Security Council on the situation in Afghanistan earlier this month.
Shah Mahmood Qureshi stressed that a peaceful and stable Afghanistan is of utmost importance for Pakistan and for peace in the region. He underscored that it is essential for the international community to stay engaged with positive messaging and constructive steps to avert humanitarian and economic crises in Afghanistan.
The foreign minister also apprised his Irish Counterpart regarding Pakistan’s facilitation in the evacuation of over 14,000 people belonging to 30 different countries and international organizations.
Noting that the large Pakistani diaspora in Ireland was a strong bridge between the two Countries, Qureshi highlighted the importance of regular engagement to boost bilateral ties between the two countries.
Shah Mahmood Qureshi also pointed out the need to hold the next round of Bilateral Political Consultations at the earliest.
Both sides agreed to remain engaged on regional issues and to consult closely with regard to the UN Security Council’s deliberations on Afghanistan.
