The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) and Externado University of Colombia *(EUC) on Tuesday signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further enhance the cultural linkages between the two countries. The MoU was signed here at the ISSI during an event in connection with the First Colombian Week celebration in Pakistan.
Speaking at the occasion Juan Alfredo Pinto Saavedra, Ambassador of Colombia to Pakistan said that Colombia has entered a new phase of optimism and looking for potential economic opportunities. "We want closer cooperation with Pakistan", the ambassador added. In his welcoming remarks, Chairman ISSI Ambassador Khalid Mahmood conveyed his good wishes to the people of Colombia on the eve of Colombian Week celebrations. He said the MoU would boost the bilateral cooperation between ISSI and the Externado University of Colombia.
He said the MoU will reduce the barriers of language and culture, and the ISSI is eager to play a role in promoting the bilateral ties, adding a general framework, under the MoU, has been drafted to initiate academic and research exchange.
He further said that the Colombian Peace Process is of extreme relevance to Pakistan since it effectively dealt with the problems of drug trafficking and insurgency.
Ambassador Juan Alfredo Pinto Saavedra also expressed confidence in initiating goodwill by celebrating the week of Colombia in Pakistan. He said that Colombia is a significant country and after the successful conclusion of the peace agreement, it is opening up to the world.