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LAHORE, Nov 20 (APP): A seven-member Filipino delegation, led by Ambassador of the Philippines Dr Emmanuel R Fernandez, called on Punjab Assembly (PA) Deputy Speaker Malik Zaheer Iqbal Channar at the Assembly Chamber on Thursday.
The meeting focused on matters of mutual interest, including strengthening bilateral relations, enhancing trade and investment, promoting people-to-people contacts and expanding regional cooperation.
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Speaker said, “Pakistan and the Philippines are bound by a long-standing relationship of respect, support and cooperation spanning over seven decades.”
He emphasized the need for both countries to benefit from modern technologies in trade, tourism, investment and especially the agricultural sector.
He further highlighted that there was a strong need to expand cooperation in education, research, scholarship programs and university-level academic collaboration.
Malik Zaheer Iqbal Channar said, “Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif is a visionary leader who is tirelessly working for the development and welfare of the province.”
Ambassador Dr Emmanuel R Fernandez underscored the importance of strengthening cultural cooperation and promoting youth and student exchange programmes.
He also appreciated the deep-rooted and longstanding friendship between Pakistan and the Philippines.
During the meeting, the Deputy Speaker briefed the delegation on the legislative process, Assembly proceedings and the performance of various committees. Both sides also discussed proposals to broaden the working relationship between the Punjab Assembly and the legislative bodies of the Philippines.
Ambassador Fernandez’s spouse, Ms Alice Calo Fernandez, Young Parliamentarians Forum Chairperson Amina Hassan Sheikh and Members of the Punjab Assembly Ehsan Riaz and Salman Shahid Mahindi were also present.
Amina Hassan Sheikh briefed the delegation about the objectives and activities of the Young Parliamentarians Forum. The delegation also visited the Punjab Assembly Hall.