Mr. Krishna Bahadur Mahara, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Nepal telephoned Mr. Shah Mehmood Qureshi today to congratulate him on assuming charge as Foreign Minister of Pakistan.

Foreign Minister, Qureshi expressed his admiration for the resolve and determination displayed by the Government and people of Nepal, as they rebuilt the country after the devastating earthquake. He also expressed the desire for enhancing economic relations between Pakistan and Nepal to a level commensurate with the political relationship and the existing goodwill. The Foreign Minister also appreciated the development of tourism in Nepal, which he stressed was a priority for Pakistan.

The Foreign Minister also emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to the principles and objectives of SAARC and its importance for regional development. He expressed the hope that SAARC could be rejuvenated as a vibrant regional organization to build economic synergies and assist in improving the lives of the peoples of South Asia.

The Foreign Minister thanked his Nepalese counterpart for the telephone call and good wishes on his assumption of office.