ISLAMABAD, (DNA) – President Emmanuel Macron of France telephoned Prime Minister Imran Khan this evening to congratulate him on his party’s election victory and for assuming the office of Prime Minister.

President Macron stressed the importance of deepening bilateral political dialogue. He expressed the desire to cooperate in the fields of energy, water resource management, trade, and economy and to work together on issues of mutual interest at the global level.

President Macron appreciated Pakistan’s efforts in fighting terrorism, and recognized the “high price” paid by Pakistan dealing with this menace. In this context, he condoled the July terrorist incidents in Pakistan.

Prime Minister Khan thanked the French President for his call. He expressed the desire for further developing bilateral relations with France into a mutually beneficial, broad -based and long-term partnership.

Prime Minister Khan added that trade and investment ties between Pakistan and France were growing and appreciated the presence of a large number of French companies in Pakistan. He invited more French investments into Pakistan.

Prime Minister Khan briefed the French President on the regional situation, especially the importance of a peaceful settlement in Afghanistan, and on the relations with India. He underscored the need for the resumption of the comprehensive dialogue with India to address all outstanding issues, including the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. He referred to the sad plight of Kashmiris facing massive human rights violations and the need for the international community to play its role to mitigate the sufferings of the Kashmiri people.

Prime Minister Khan invited President Macron to visit Pakistan which the French leader accepted.