FM, Canadian Minister discuss bilateral relations

June 4, 2020: Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi contacted Canadian Minister for International Development Karina Gould via video link and discussed bilateral relations and the economic impact of the Covid-19.

The Foreign Minister said despite limited resources, Pakistan on the one hand is fighting to stifle the spread of coronavirus and on the other providing financial assistance to millions of poor families affected by the pandemic.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi said Prime Minister Imran Khan has proposed the debt relief for the developing countries keeping in view their poor economic situation. 

He expressed satisfaction that the G-20 and other important forums have not only discussed the proposal, but practical steps are also being taken towards that end. He expressed the confidence that Canada being a vibrant and active member of G-7 and G-20 countries will take forward the proposal of debt relief.

The Canadian Minister hailed the debt relief proposal saying Coronavirus is a global challenge and her country stands by Pakistan in this difficult hour.

She said apart from Coronavirus, we will also extend cooperation to Pakistan for the eradication of poliovirus.

FM holds telephonic contact with his Dutch counterpart 

Meanwhile, during his telephonic contact with his Dutch counterpart Stef Blok yesterday, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has underscored the need to adopt a comprehensive, integrated and joint course of action on the global level for the economic revival of the developing countries in view of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Minister apprised his Dutch counterpart of the proposal of Prime Minister Imran Khan on debt relief to prop the economies of developing countries.

He also drew the attention of Dutch Foreign Minister on putting the blame of coronavirus on Indian Muslims and harassing them.

He reiterated Pakistan's desire for lasting peace and stability in Afghanistan.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi expressed deep grief over the loss of Dutch lives due to coronavirus. He appreciated the timely steps taken by the Netherlands and the European Union to stop the spread of coronavirus and for economic stability.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi and Stef Blok also deliberated on bilateral trade and investment.  

Radio Pakistan