Foreign Secretary Asim Iftikhar Ahmad called on Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani at Parliament House, Islamabad, The meeting underscored the importance of closer coordination between parliamentary diplomacy and formal diplomatic channels in advancing Pakistan’s foreign policy priorities and strengthening its international partnerships. Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani warmly welcomed the Foreign Secretary and congratulated him on assuming his new responsibilities. He expressed confidence that Mr. Asim Iftikhar Ahmad’s diplomatic experience and professional expertise would contribute to advancing Pakistan’s foreign policy objectives and safeguarding its national interests.
The Chairman emphasised that sustained diplomatic engagement, constructive dialogue and mutually beneficial cooperation are essential to strengthening Pakistan’s relations with countries across the world. He highlighted the complementary role of parliamentary diplomacy in fostering political understanding, building institutional linkages and opening new avenues for international cooperation.
Referring to his recent bilateral visits and participation in the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Tanzania, Mr. Gilani observed that parliamentary engagements provide valuable opportunities to exchange perspectives, strengthen bilateral relations and promote cooperation on regional and international issues. He also highlighted his role as Founding Chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers Conference (ISC), reflecting Pakistan’s contribution to fostering dialogue and cooperation among parliamentary leadership across countries.
The meeting reaffirmed the importance of effective coordination between the Senate and the Foreign Office in complementing Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts, deepening international partnerships and projecting the country’s perspectives on issues of regional and global significance.
Foreign Secretary Asim Iftikhar Ahmad thanked the Chairman Senate for the warm welcome and acknowledged his contribution to projecting Pakistan’s positive image internationally through parliamentary diplomacy and sustained engagement with global counterparts. Member of the National Assembly Abdul Qadir Gilani, Secretary Senate Syed Hasnain Haider, and Advisor to the Chairman Senate and Ambassador to the ISC, Misbah Khar, were also present.
