ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Oman agreed on Wednesday to further strengthen cooperation, particularly in the fields of economy, trade, manpower, defence and security.

The whole gamut of bilateral issues came under discussion at the fifth round of political consultations held between the Pakistani and Omani delegations here at the Foreign Office.

Foreign Secretary Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry led the Pakistani delegation while the Omani delegation was led by Oman’s Under Secretary of Foreign Affairs for Diplomatic Affairs Ahmed bin Yousuf bin Obaid Al Harthy.

Underscoring the excellent cooperation already existing between Pakistan and Oman, the two delegations reiterated their commitment to further intensifying cooperation at multilateral forums.

The need for greater interaction between the private sectors of the two countries was also emphasised.

The Pakistani officials handed over to the Omani delegation a copy of a letter from President Mamnoon Hussain to Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al-Said, congratulating him on his return to Oman after his medical treatment and recuperation.

During the meeting, views were also exchanged on regional and international issues of mutual interest and concern, including the situation in Yemen and its implications for peace and stability in the region.

Mr Chaudhry also hosted a luncheon in honour of the visiting delegation.

Under Secretary Ahmed bin Yousuf bin Obaid Al Harthy expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and hospitality extended to him and members of his delegation during their stay in Pakistan.

Al Harthy also called on Adviser to the Prime Minister on National Security and Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz. They expressed satisfaction at the state of relations between their two countries.

Mr Aziz lauded the cooperation extended by Oman in the context of Pakistan’s claim for extension of its continental shelf.

On behalf of the government, he thanked the Omani government for facilitating evacuation of 12 Pakistanis from war-torn Yemen through the land border.

Mr Aziz also underlined the need for high-level contacts between the two countries to give impetus to the relations between them.

Published in Dawn, April 9th, 2015

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