Inaugural Briefing Session of Pakistan–Nepal +Bhutan Parliamentary Friendship Group
Islamabad : The Pakistan–Nepal + Bhutan Parliamentary Friendship Group (PFG) convened its inaugural briefing session at Parliament House, under the convenership of MNA Dr. Mehesh Kumar Malani. The meeting was attended by Members of the PFG, including Mr. Shahzada Muhammad Gushtasap Khan, Mr. Muhammad Usman Badini, Dr Darshan, Dr. Shazia Sobia Aslam Soomro, Ms. Farah Naz Akbar, Ms. Nikhat Shakeel Khan, Ms. Mussarat Rafique Mahesar and Ms. Shaista Khan.
The session featured briefings by the High Commissioner of Pakistan to Nepal and the Ambassador of Pakistan to Bhutan(non-resident), as well as senior representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Commerce. The briefings covered the current status of bilateral relations, trade dynamics, and the potential for cooperation in religious tourism, particularly highlighting Pakistan’s historical Gandhara and Buddhist heritage sites.
The Convener Pakistan- Nepal+ Bhutan PFG, Dr. Mehesh Kumar Malani noted that Pakistan-Nepal+ Bhutan trade remains limited due to geographical constraints, shipping challenges, and the absence of direct air connectivity. He emphasized the importance of deepening bilateral ties with both Nepal and Bhutan. He recommended the establishment of direct inter-parliamentary contacts through the respective Parliamentary Friendship Groups to foster greater cooperation.
The members of the Pakistan–Nepal +Bhutan PFG reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation with both countries. They agreed to extend full support to Pakistan’s diplomatic missions, establish formal channels with the Parliaments of Nepal and Bhutan, and promote people-to-people contacts, cultural exchange, and mutual parliamentary collaboration.
