Pakistan, Norway Vow to Strengthen Economic Ties as Oslo Praises Islamabad’s Regional Role

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held talks with Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, with the two sides reviewing bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, climate change, education and other areas. The delegation-level meeting also covered regional developments and international issues of mutual interest. Dar welcomed the Norwegian foreign minister, saying Pakistan was keen to further expand economic relations with Norway and highlighting the two countries’ 78-year partnership. He also noted the contribution of Norwegian companies to Pakistan’s development.

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening relations with Pakistan and praised Islamabad’s role during the recent Iran-US conflict. He particularly appreciated the leadership and efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Ishaq Dar and Field Marshal Asim Munir, saying Pakistan had played a constructive role for regional and global peace during a difficult period. Eide warned that the ongoing tensions posed serious risks to international peace and the global economy.

According to the Foreign Office spokesperson, the two sides expressed satisfaction with the friendly and cordial relations between Pakistan and Norway and discussed ways to enhance cooperation across multiple sectors. Eide also appreciated the role of the Pakistani community in Norway, while the two sides reviewed opportunities for expanding trade and investment and exchanged views on regional and international developments.