Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari has received credentials from envoys of six countries and discussed expanding bilateral cooperation. Ambassadors-designate of Cuba, Ethiopia, Portugal, Spain, and Tanzania, as well as the High Commissioner-designate of Singapore, presented their credentials to President Asif Ali Zardari in Islamabad today.
According to Radio Pakistan, the President felicitated the envoys on the commencement of their diplomatic responsibilities in Pakistan and conveyed his best wishes for a productive tenure. He expressed the hope that their assignments would contribute to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
During his interaction with Ambassador-designate of Cuba Damian Cordero Torres, the President reaffirmed the longstanding and friendly relations between the two countries. He appreciated Cuba's support in healthcare and education, including medical scholarships, and emphasised the potential for cooperation in health, biotechnology, and tourism, as well as continued collaboration at multilateral forums. The President also conveyed Pakistan's deep appreciation for Cuba's support during the 2005 earthquake, noting that this humanitarian assistance remains a lasting symbol of solidarity between the two nations.
In his meeting with Ambassador-designate of Ethiopia Dr. Oumer Hussein Oba, Asif Ali Zardari welcomed the opening of Ethiopia's Embassy in Islamabad and the resumption of direct flights. He noted the growing engagement between the two countries and emphasised the need to expand cooperation in trade, aviation, education, and technology.
In his meeting with Ambassador-designate of Portugal Paulo Miguel Guedes Domingues, the President emphasised the need to expand cooperation in trade, investment, IT, agriculture, and blue economy, while also highlighting the role of the Pakistani diaspora and prospects for labour mobility and academic exchanges.
In his meeting with Ambassador-designate of Spain Carlos Arag³n Gil de la Serna, Asif Ali Zardari noted the milestone of 75 years of diplomatic relations and appreciated Spain's commitment to multilateralism. He highlighted strong trade ties supported by GSP Plus, encouraged greater investment and cooperation, and underscored the importance of safe and legal migration, as well as cultural and academic exchanges. He appreciated the principled stance taken by Spain in the current Gulf crisis and noted that it reflects a commitment to dialogue, de-escalation, and adherence to international law.
Talking to Ambassador-designate of Tanzania Lieutenant General retired Yacoub Hassan Mohamed, the President reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to strengthening ties with Tanzania and the East African Community. He emphasised the need to enhance trade, investment, and technical cooperation, and called for stronger business linkages, improved connectivity, and greater people-to-people exchanges.
Meeting the High Commissioner-designate of Singapore Ishak Bin Ismail, the President highlighted Singapore's importance as a key regional partner and underscored prospects for expanding cooperation in trade, fintech, infrastructure, and services. He also emphasised the role of the Pakistani diaspora, the potential for enhanced connectivity, and collaboration in climate and digital economy initiatives.
Upon arrival, the envoys were presented with a guard of honour. National anthems were played and the envoys reviewed the parade before proceeding to present their credentials.