Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik says “We look forward to building close and strong partnerships with ASEAN states,” he said, adding that such alliances are vital for peace and prosperity
Ansar M Bhatti
ISLAMABAD: In a significant diplomatic development, Federal Energy Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik expressed deep gratitude to the ambassadors of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for their unwavering support to Pakistan during testing times. Speaking at a gathering that underscored the spirit of collaboration, Malik highlighted the importance of learning from one another and building stronger partnerships to overcome shared challenges.
Minister Malik expressed these remarks while speaking on the occasion of handing over of ASEAN Islamabad Committee chairmanship from Indonesia to the Philippines, for the next six months.
The minister noted that this sentiment of cooperation was also echoed by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar during his recent visit to Manila, where he conveyed Pakistan’s commitment to fostering regional unity. Malik emphasized that Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts have played a crucial role in bringing “sanity” to conflicts that have engulfed the wider region, stressing that economic pain has been felt globally, including in the United States.
Minister Malik underscored that Pakistan’s role in stabilizing the region has been a source of pride for its people. He firmly rejected any notion that Pakistan supports terrorism, clarifying instead that the country has been a victim of it. “We look forward to building close and strong partnerships with ASEAN states,” he said, adding that such alliances are vital for peace and prosperity.
On the economic front, Malik candidly admitted that Pakistan’s exports have declined from 15 percent to around 8–9 percent, a trend that poses serious challenges to growth. “No country can grow without increasing exports,” he remarked, urging policymakers and business leaders to prioritize trade expansion as a cornerstone of economic revival.
The Indonesian Ambassador and the outgoing Chair of ACI Chandra Warsenanto Sukotjo reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to supporting Pakistan, noting that the bloc values Islamabad’s participation in regional dialogues. He thanked Pakistan for ensuring that Finance Minister Dar took part in the ASEAN meeting in Manila, describing Pakistan as holding an “important place” in ASEAN’s engagement strategy.
The ambassador stressed that ASEAN’s efforts are geared toward improving bilateral relations and ensuring that Pakistan remains an integral partner in the region’s economic and diplomatic landscape.
The discussions highlighted a shared recognition that collaboration between Pakistan and ASEAN is not only desirable but essential. Both sides acknowledged the pressing need to address economic challenges, strengthen trade ties, and work collectively to counter terrorism and instability.
Minister Malik’s remarks, coupled with ASEAN’s assurances, signal a renewed chapter in Pakistan’s diplomatic outreach. The emphasis on mutual learning, economic cooperation, and regional stability reflects a pragmatic approach to international relations, one that seeks to transform adversity into opportunity.
As Pakistan continues to navigate global uncertainties, its engagement with ASEAN offers a pathway to resilience and growth. The spirit of solidarity expressed in Manila and echoed in Islamabad underscores that in today’s interconnected world, no nation can thrive in isolation.
