ISLAMABAD, APR 05, (DNA) – The 9^th session of Pakistan-Norway Bilateral Political Consultations (BPC) was held in Oslo from 03-04 April 2017. The Pakistan delegation was led by Ambassador Zaheer A. Janjua, Additional Secretary (Europe), while the Norwegian side was led by Ambassador Tine Morch Smith, Director General (Department of Regional Affairs), Royal Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The talks were held in a cordial and friendly atmosphere. The two sides reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and identified opportunities and possibilities for further strengthening cooperation, especially in economic, trade, investment, cultural, and educational fields.

The two sides discussed the evolving peace and security environments in their respective regions. International issues of mutual interest also came under discussion. They also agreed to enhance cooperation at the United Nations and other multilateral fora.

The Additional Foreign Secretary (Europe) called on Ms. Marit Berger Rosland, State Secretary (Minister of State) and Mr. Wegger Chr. Strommen, Secretary General of the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. During the meetings, he underscored the need for further strengthening the economic and trade relations as well as active collaboration in the educational and technical fields. He briefed the Norwegian dignitaries on the grave human rights violations perpetrated by the occupying forces in the Indian held Kashmir. He also briefed them on the connectivity initiatives being launched in the region, which have opened immense opportunities for investment.

Pakistan and Norway cooperate closely on bilateral and multilateral issues. The Annual Bilateral Political Consultations provide a useful platform to review progress in various fields, identify opportunities for future areas of cooperation. The last session of these consultations was held in Islamabad on 25 February 2014. The next round of Bilateral Political Consultations will be held in Islamabad on mutually convenient dates.