Margarita Islands, Venezuela, Sept 17 (DNA) – Pakistan and Venezuela have decided to strengthen bilateral relations and take measures to expand trade between the two countries. This was agreed in a meeting between the Adviser on Foreign Affairs Mr. Sartaj Aziz and the Foreign Minister of Venezuela Ms. Delcy Rodríguez, held today, on sidelines of the 17th Summit of NAM in Margarita Island, Venezuela. HE ALSO MET with Iran Foreign Minister.

Expressing satisfaction at the friendly relations between Pakistan and Venezuela, Mr. Aziz and Ms. Rodriguez identified significant potential for enhancing trade and economic ties between the two countries. Pakistan sought Venezuela’s support for a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) with MERCUSOR, under the Framework Agreement that it signed with MERCUSOR bloc in July 2006. The two sides also decided to promote cooperation in multilateral forums for mutual benefit.

Congratulating Venezuela on assuming the Presidency of NAM, Mr. Sartaj Aziz urged the need to reinvigorate the Movement by enhancing political solidarity and economic cooperation among its member countries. Lauding Pakistan’s contribution to the NAM process, Foreign Minister Rodriguez welcomed the idea and stated that the two sides would work closely to make NAM stronger and more relevant during the Venezuelan Presidency.

Mr. Sartaj Aziz also met Iranian Foreign Minister Mr. Jawad Zareef, today, on sidelines of the 17 NAM Summit. The two sides discussed bilateral relations and regional developments with particular focus on Afghanistan. Mr. Aziz briefed his Iranian counterpart on the situation in Indian Occupied Kashmir and Pakistan-India relations. He also appreciated Iran’s role as the President of NAM. Iran is the outgoing President, having led the NAM process since 2012.

Mr. Aziz is leading Pakistan’s delegation to the 17th NAM Summit being held in Margarita Islands, Venezuela, from 15-18 September 2016. The Ministerial segment of the Summit concluded today after finalizing the NAM declaration and the Outcome Document, which will be presented to the Summit for adoption on 18 September 2016.   =DNA