Further promoting its international partnerships, the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Casa Asia — marking a vital step forward in strengthening closer collaboration between Pakistan and Spain, particularly in the academic, research and think-tanks domains. The MoU was signed by Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General, ISSI and Mr José Pintor, Director General, Casa Asia. The signing ceremony was attended by Ambassador José Antonio de Ory, Spain’s Ambassador to Pakistan, and senior representatives from both institutions.
The central element of the MoU is the commitment to organize joint events, including the “Pakistan-Spain Forum,” which is aimed at strengthening ties in areas of mutual interest.
Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, in his remarks on the occasion, commended the leadership of Casa Asia as a formidable force in promoting intercultural dialogue and knowledge exchange. He also lauded the support and facilitation provided by the respective ambassadors of Pakistan and Spain in forging the institutional relationship. He highlighted the wide range of subjects for joint cooperation, including not only Pakistan-Spain relations but also engagement on broader regional and global developments such as the evolving global order, the role of Europe, and future security relations and architecture. He reaffirmed ISSI’s commitment to developing intellectual and institutional synergies with Casa Asia, and working towards realisation of practical goals.
Mr José Pintor described the signing of the MoU as a significant milestone. He expressed appreciation for the support of both Embassies and emphasized the importance of pursuing a practical and result-oriented partnership that enhances mutual understanding and cooperation. “Pakistan is a very important country for us,” he stated, adding that the initiative would contribute to increasing knowledge about Pakistan and deepening bilateral ties.
Ambassador José Antonio de Ory expressed his satisfaction on the signing and reaffirmed the strong political and social relations between the two countries. Pakistan and Spain have excellent bilateral relations, and there is scope for further strengthening cooperation, especially in the areas of culture, arts, literature, and investment, he noted. He also praised Casa Asia and ISSI for working together to find new avenues of cooperation.
The MoU reflects a shared commitment to promoting mutual understanding, dialogue, and enhancing people-to-people contacts between Pakistan and Spain, and more broadly, between academic and research commitments between Pakistan and Europe.