The third Round of Policy Consultation Talks between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan and the Philippines was held here on Saturday, said a statement issued by Foreign Office.
Cristina G. Ortega, Assistant Secretary Asia and Pacific Affairs of the Department of Foreign Affairs led the Philippines side, whereas Syed Hasan Javed, Additional Secretary (Asia and Pacific) at the Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led the Pakistan side.
They expressed satisfaction at the continued growth of mutually beneficial co-operation in diverse fields including trade, commerce, security and defence. Both sides reiterated their commitment to further intensify co-operation in the fields of culture, tourism, trade, education, science & technology, civilian nuclear energy and promote people-to-people contacts.
Exploring the need to further promote economic co-operation, the two sides identified generic pharmaceuticals, fresh vegetables, construction, halal food, training of manpower, livestock and tourism as areas of potential co-operation. They agreed on the need for greater interaction between the two private sectors.
Both sides also discussed regional issues and matters pertaining to co-operation at multilateral fora including an inter-faith dialogue. Pakistan reaffirmed its desire for on enhanced partnership with Asean. The Philippines' delegation gave an overview of the regional issues in South East Asia. The Philippines head of delegation also called on the Secretary Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Salman Bashir.-PR