ISLAMABAD, Pakistan: President Dr. Arif Alvi has called for strengthening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Somalia in all areas of mutual interest, particularly trade and economy.
Talking to the outgoing Ambassador of Somalia to Pakistan Mrs Khadija Almakhzoumi who paid a farewell call on him at Aiwan-e-Sadr in Islamabad on Friday, the president said that Pakistan had initiated the ‘’Look Africa Policy’’, which would further boost bilateral relations with all African countries.
The president thanked Somalia for participating in the two sessions of the Council of Foreign Ministers of OIC Countries in Islamabad.
President Arif Alvi underscored the need for increasing the exchange of parliamentary delegations between the two Countries and invited the Somali Parliamentarians to benefit from the Parliamentary Services Program offered by the Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Service (PIPS) Islamabad.
The president highlighted that Pakistan eagerly welcomed African students and a large number of Somali students were already enrolled in Pakistani academic institutions.
The president further stated that Pakistan was host to a sizeable number of Somali refugees and was desirous of their safe and early return to their homes.
President Dr. Arif Alvi appreciated the services of the outgoing envoy in promoting bilateral ties between the two Countries and conveyed his best wishes for her future responsibilities.
