Pakistan–Serbia Parliamentary Friendship Group Holds First Briefing Session at Parliament House
The Pakistan–Serbia Parliamentary Friendship Group (PFG), under the convenership of Mr. Muhammad Numan, MNA, held its first briefing session at Parliament House, Islamabad.
The meeting was attended by Members of the Group including Dr. Shahida Rehmani, Mr. Naveed Aamir Jeeva, Ms. Romina Khurshid Alam and Ms. Samina Khalid Ghurki. The session was also attended by representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Commerce, while H.E. Syed Faraz Hussain Zaidi, Ambassador of Pakistan to Serbia, joined the meeting virtually.
In his opening remarks, the Convener highlighted the importance of strengthening parliamentary engagement between Pakistan and Serbia.
He noted that the establishment and reconstitution of the Parliamentary Friendship Group presents a timely opportunity to enhance bilateral cooperation and deepen engagement between the two countries.
Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs briefed the Members on the historical trajectory and current status of Pakistan–Serbia relations. The Members were informed that Pakistan and Serbia maintain friendly relations and that diplomatic engagement between the two countries continues to evolve. Representatives from the Ministry of Commerce briefed the Members on bilateral trade dynamics, noting that trade between Pakistan and Serbia remains modest but holds significant potential for growth. The briefing also highlighted ongoing efforts regarding the opening of a Serbian diplomatic mission in Islamabad, which is expected to further facilitate bilateral cooperation and enhance people-to-people exchanges.
The Ambassador of Pakistan to Serbia also shared insights on the evolving political and economic landscape in Serbia and emphasized the potential for strengthening bilateral cooperation in various sectors. He highlighted opportunities for expanding engagement in areas such as trade, education, tourism, and parliamentary exchanges.
Members of the Group emphasized the importance of strengthening parliamentary diplomacy and encouraging greater institutional interaction between the two countries. They also highlighted the need to facilitate visa processes and enhance people-to-people contacts in order to promote academic,
cultural, and economic exchanges. Members underscored the need to facilitate legitimate travel and ensure better support mechanisms for Pakistani citizens abroad.
In his concluding remarks, the Convener expressed hope that the Pakistan–Serbia Parliamentary Friendship Group would play an active role in strengthening parliamentary engagement and promoting greater cooperation between the two countries across multiple sectors.
