ISLAMABAD: The sixth meeting of ASEAN-Pakistan Joint Sectoral Cooperation Committee (APJSCC) was held at the ASEAN Secretariat in Jakarta on 2 November 2017.

The meeting was co-chaired by Imtiaz Ahmad, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Hirubalan VP, Deputy Secretary General of ASEAN. Pakistan delegation also included Pakistan’s Ambassador as well as representatives of Ministries of Commerce and Industries and Production.

The two sides reviewed ASEAN-Pakistan Sectoral Dialogue Relations, including cooperation activities in the areas of trade, industry and investment, science and technology, tourism and human resource development, said a press release.

Pakistan’s Co-Chair highlighted the importance Pakistan attached to its relations with ASEAN and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further deepen and strengthen its engagement with the organization. He reiterated Pakistan’s request for grant of full dialogue partnership of ASEAN. Pakistan also congratulated ASEAN on its 50th anniversary, being celebrated this year.

Pakistan side also briefed ASEAN delegates on economic progress achieved under the current government as well as successful operations carried out against militants to root out terrorism from Pakistan.

ASEAN delegation appreciated Pakistan’s continued interest in forging closer cooperation with ASEAN. They also apprised about the organization’s future plans, including the forthcoming 31st ASEAN Summit to be held on 10-11 November 2017 in Philippines, progress in ASEAN Economic Community established in 2015, ASEAN Connectivity and 50 years celebrations of ASEAN.

Both sides agreed to continue close cooperation and interaction in diverse areas and agreed to meet again next year.—PR