ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani has said Pakistan and the South East Asian countries are faced with common challenges such as climate change, terrorism, Islamophobia, migration from conflict zones and cyber security.
He said there was an urgent need for formulating common solutions to tackle all these issues through joint efforts.
The caretaker foreign minister was speaking at the inaugural function of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Corner at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad on Monday.
He said Pakistan was and would remain a strong partner in efforts for peace, stability and development of the region.
Mr Jilani said Pakistan believes that a recommitment to the fundamental principles of the UN charter was the need of the hour.
“It is important that we reaffirm our support for an international order based on peaceful coexistence, amicable settlements of disputes, win-win cooperation and shared prosperity. He said there is a need to avoid bloc politics and geo political constructs.”
He said that peace in the region was a priority for Pakistan and Islamabad was always ready to work with ASEAN member states for confidence building and conflict prevention.
He said that CPEC was a manifestation of Pakistan’s belief in promotion of regional connectivity.
“It is a pity that SAARC established exactly on the same line as ASEAN despite its immense potential has fallen victim to Indian intransigence.
“But Pakistan remains focused on deepening its relationship with various regions and organizations including ASEAN.”
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