LAHORE/DNA
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz met with the Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Neil Hawkins, in Lahore. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation, ongoing development partnerships, and mutual efforts in education, agriculture, and climate resilience.
During the meeting, CM Maryam Nawaz appreciated the efforts of High Commissioner Neil Hawkins in promoting strong and productive relations between Pakistan and Australia. She noted that under his tenure, bilateral engagements between Punjab and Australian institutions had seen positive growth, particularly in areas such as vocational training, water resource management, and women’s empowerment.
“Australia has always been a valued partner, and your efforts in enhancing people-to-people contacts and institutional collaboration are commendable,” said the Chief Minister. She also emphasized the need for further cooperation in renewable energy, climate change adaptation, and agricultural technology — areas where Australia holds global expertise.
Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz has invited Australian investors and entrepreneurs to explore business and investment opportunities in Pakistan’s tourism and information technology (IT) sectors, highlighting the country’s vast potential and the provincial government’s investor-friendly policies.
Speaking on the occasion, CM Maryam Nawaz said, “Pakistan, particularly Punjab, offers immense opportunities for investment in tourism and IT. Our cultural heritage, scenic beauty, and growing digital infrastructure present an ideal environment for foreign investment. We welcome Australian business leaders and companies to partner with us.”
High Commissioner Neil Hawkins, in turn, expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and reiterated his country’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Pakistan, particularly at the provincial level. “Pakistan and Australia are good and reliable partners,” Hawkins remarked, adding that Australia remains invested in supporting sustainable development initiatives in Punjab and beyond.
The meeting also covered ongoing Australian-supported projects in Punjab, including scholarships for Pakistani students, technical assistance in water conservation, and support for flood resilience infrastructure. Both sides agreed to explore new avenues of cooperation, particularly in education, trade, and environmental protection.
The visit by the High Commissioner comes at a time when Australia is looking to expand its development footprint in South Asia. His engagement with provincial leadership reflects Canberra’s commitment to inclusive diplomacy and grassroots partnerships.
Maryam Nawaz thanked Neil Hawkins for his constructive role and hoped that the strong foundation laid during his tenure would continue to evolve in the years to come.
