The 13th Round of Pakistan-France Bilateral Political Consultations was held in Islamabad on 10 July 2018. Foreign Secretary Tehmina Janjua led the Pakistan delegation, while the French side was headed by Mr. Maurice Gourdault-Montagne, Secretary General Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The two sides reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and identified opportunities for further cooperation in political, economic, trade, investment, defence, education and cultural fields. They also expressed satisfaction at the growing cooperation in the context of the European Union. The Foreign Secretary provided an overview of progress made by Pakistan in strengthening democracy, political stability and improved law and order situation in the country. The achievements in the fight against terrorism and implementation of the National Action Plan were also highlighted. The two sides exchanged views on important global and regional issues of mutual interest. The Foreign Secretary briefed on foreign policy priorities of the country in the region, particularly efforts to facilitate an intra-Afghan process of political reconciliation. The French side appreciated Pakistan’s positive role in peace efforts in Afghanistan and acknowledged the need to work together to address the continuing threat of terrorism and extremism. The French side also highlighted challenges confronting France and the European Union, including migration. The Foreign Secretary briefed the French delegation on Pakistan-India relations and expressed grave concern at continued human rights violations in the Indian occupied Jammu and Kashmir, which has been verified in recent report by the UN High Commissioner on Human Rights. The two sides agreed to encourage their respective private sectors to take advantage of the investment opportunities on offer in both countries. The next round of Pakistan-France Bilateral Political Consultations would be held in Paris in 2019. *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*
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