Zubair Qureshi
The Embassy of Belgium in Islamabad, Thursday evening, hosted a grand reception to mark two milestones—the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Pakistan and the 10th anniversary of the 7th constitutional king of the country, King Philippe.
Ambassador of Belgium Charles Delogne and his wife had played the perfect hosts at the reception at their residence by individually attending each guest. This reflected typical Belgian hospitality and courtesy that turned a cold and chilly evening quite warm and cozy.
Caretaker Minister for Privatization Fawad Hassan Fawad was the chief guest while one could spot HR Minister Khalil George and former Climate Change Minister Sherry Rehman among the guests who had come in large number to greet the Belgian couple.
In his address Chief Guest, Fawad Hassan Fawad congratulated Ambassador Charles Delogne, his spouse and the Belgian nationals on the 10th anniversary of King Philippe’s accession.
He also referred to the 75 years of bilateral relations that showed a steady growth and said Pakistan valued relations with Belgium and the European countries. It is because of the GSP+ status given to Pakistan by the EU that our bilateral trade has increased exponentially (up to 92pc growth in exports from Pakistan to Belgium). Similarly, Belgium’s exports have also increased up to 72 pc to Pakistan which speaks volumes about the mutual benefits of the GSP+. Pakistan, he said, imported machinery from Belgium while Belgium imported textile products, sports and surgical goods from Pakistan.
Apart from business and trade, both countries have also advanced in other sectors. In 2022 alone, 300 Pakistani students opted for the Belgian universities for further studies, said the Minister. On human rights, democracy, rule of law and tolerance in society, Pakistan understands the concerns and is constantly engaged with the Belgium government on these issues, he said.
Earlier in his welcome speech, Ambassador Charles said the Belgian King Philippe was deeply attached to humanist values, tirelessly pleading for tolerance and solidarity.
