KARACHI, July 15: France plans to extend further assistance to Pakistan in the realms of education for enhancement of academic standards and quality.

This was stated by Ambassador of France in Pakistan, Regis de Belenel, during a meeting with the Sindh education minister Dr Hamida Khuhro here on Saturday. The consul-general of France in Karachi, Pierre Seillan, was also present.

The envoy pointed out that France was already assisting Pakistan in the field of education from the platform of the European Union. He said his country was also extending help to Pakistan in higher education and at the university level. Regis de Belenel stated that his country intends to provide more assistance to Pakistan towards quality education.

He praised the role of Sindh education minister towards the development of this vital sector.

The minister apprised the envoy of the revolutionary steps being taken in the realms of education.

She informed him about the efforts for enhancement of literacy in various districts of the province, female education and steps for enrolment of out of the school children, free distribution of textbooks to the school students in the province.

Dr Khuhro presented the French Ambassador and the consul-general the traditional gift of 'Ajrak'.

Sindh Education Secretary Ghulam Ali Pasha was also present during the meeting.—APP