ISLAMABAD - Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi, who is on an official visit to Iraq, called on President of Iraq Dr. Barham Salih, in Baghdad yesterday.
The Foreign Minister conveyed warm wishes to President Salih from Pakistan’s leadership. He affirmed Pakistan’s support for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Iraq. Acknowledging the unyielding efforts and sacrifices of Iraq, and its people, in the fight against terrorism, the Foreign Minister wished peace, progress and prosperity for the brotherly people of Iraq.
Foreign Minister Qureshi briefed the President on Pakistan’s transformed vision centred around economic security, shifting focus from geo-politics to geo-economics.
Reaffirming Pakistan’s longstanding and friendly ties with Iraq, Foreign Minister Qureshi expressed Pakistan’s desire to further enhance existing bilateral ties in all spheres of cooperation.
The President agreed that the two countries needed to strengthen bilateral cooperation in mutually beneficial areas. Appreciating Prime Minister Imran Khan’s environmental initiatives, he hoped for greater cooperation in this field.
They also discussed regional and global issues of mutual interest. Foreign Minister Qureshi briefed the President on the situation in South Asia, in particular Pakistan’s approach towards the issues and disputes with India, Pakistan’s consistent support for the Afghan Peace Process, and Pakistan’s steadfast diplomatic support for the just cause of Palestine. He also highlighted Pakistan’s efforts to promote solidarity among the Muslim Ummah.