High Commission for Pakistan
Canberra
Press Release
High Commissioner Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri Addresses the Australian Institute of International Affairs.
As a part of his regular engagement with the Australian think tanks and intelligentsia, High Commissioner Zahid Hafeez Chaudhri, addressed the Australian Institute of International Affairs (AIIA) in Canberra on 10 August 2022. AllA is a premier Australian research institute and think tank focused on international relations.
The High Commissioner shared with the audience the broader contours of Pakistan’s foreign policy, which is one of friendliness and goodwill towards all the nations of the world. He also briefed the audience about the issues that influence Pakistan’s foreign policy. He presented an overview of Pakistan’s relations with its immediate neighbours including China, Afghanistan, Iran, and India; major powers including the United States, European Union, United Kingdom; and the Islamic world.
The High Commissioner also talked about various aspects of the Jammu and Kashmir dispute and the situation in the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, following India’s illegal and unilateral actions of 5 August 2019.
Expressing satisfaction over friendly and cooperative relations between Pakistan and Australian, the High Commissioner underscored the need to further expand mutually beneficial cooperation in the areas of trade and investment; agriculture and water management; science and technology; defense and security; climate change; IT and education. He highlighted the opportunities available in Pakistan for Australian businesses and investors. He also highlighted the role of strong Pakistani diaspora in Australia which was positively contributing to the development of both the countries and also serving as a living bridge.
After the High Commissioner’s address, an interactive session with the audience was held.
The event provided the High Commission with an opportunity to share Pakistan’s perspective on key foreign policy issues and important developments taking place in the region.
Canberra
11 August 2022