Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari on Tuesday received the credentials of newly appointed ambassadors-designate from Cuba, Ethiopia, Portugal, Spain, and Tanzania, along with the High Commissioner-designate of Singapore, during a formal ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr.
The President extended his felicitations to the envoys on the commencement of their diplomatic assignments in Pakistan and conveyed his best wishes for a successful and productive tenure. He expressed confidence that their presence would further strengthen bilateral relations and deepen cooperation across diverse sectors of mutual interest.
Strengthening Historic and Strategic Partnerships
Pakistan–Cuba Relations
credential to President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan – e – Sadr
In his meeting with the Ambassador-designate of Cuba, President Zardari reaffirmed the longstanding and cordial ties between the two countries. He commended Cuba’s continued support in healthcare and education, particularly through medical scholarships, and highlighted opportunities for enhanced collaboration in health, biotechnology, tourism, and multilateral forums. The President also expressed Pakistan’s enduring gratitude for Cuba’s humanitarian assistance during the 2005 earthquake, describing it as a lasting symbol of solidarity.
Expanding Engagement with Ethiopia
credential to President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan – e – Sadr
During discussions with the Ambassador-designate of Ethiopia, the President welcomed the opening of Ethiopia’s Embassy in Islamabad and the resumption of direct air connectivity. He noted the growing momentum in bilateral engagement and emphasized the need to expand cooperation in trade, aviation, education, and technology.
Enhancing Ties with European Partners
Pakistan–Portugal Cooperation
presents credential to President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan – e – Sadr
In his meeting with the Ambassador-designate of Portugal, President Zardari underscored the importance Pakistan attaches to its relations with Portugal, both bilaterally and within the European Union framework. He acknowledged the positive trajectory in trade and highlighted opportunities for collaboration in investment, information technology, agriculture, and the blue economy. The President also emphasized the role of the Pakistani diaspora and the potential for labour mobility and academic exchanges.
Celebrating 75 Years of Pakistan–Spain Relations
credential to President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan – e – Sadr
While receiving the Ambassador-designate of Spain, the President noted the milestone of 75 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He appreciated Spain’s commitment to multilateralism and its principled stance in the current Gulf crisis, emphasizing the importance of dialogue, de-escalation, and adherence to international law. He also highlighted strong trade ties, supported by GSP Plus status, and encouraged further cooperation in investment, as well as cultural and academic exchanges.
Promoting Regional Connectivity and Global Cooperation
Strengthening Pakistan–Tanzania Relations
presents credential to President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan – e – Sadr
In his interaction with the Ambassador-designate of Tanzania, President Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening ties with Tanzania and the East African region. He called for enhanced trade, investment, and technical cooperation, along with stronger business linkages, improved connectivity, and increased people-to-people exchanges.
Expanding Partnership with Singapore
President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan – e – Sadr
Meeting the High Commissioner-designate of Singapore, the President described Singapore as a key regional partner and underscored prospects for expanding collaboration in trade, fintech, infrastructure, and services.
He also highlighted opportunities in climate initiatives and the digital economy, while acknowledging the constructive role of the Pakistani diaspora in strengthening bilateral relations.
Ceremonial Welcome at Aiwan-e-Sadr
Upon arrival at Aiwan-e-Sadr, the envoys were accorded a formal guard of honour. National anthems were played, and the dignitaries reviewed the ceremonial parade before presenting their credentials to the President.
The ceremony marked a renewed commitment by Pakistan to advancing diplomatic engagement and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships across regions.
BY: Nadeem Faisal Baiga
