The Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Ahsan Iqbal, has met Lebanon’s ambassador to Pakistan, Abdulaziz Issa, to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral relations through trade, education, tourism, sports and people-to-people exchanges.
Ahsan Iqbal highlighted Pakistan’s export potential in pharmaceuticals, textiles, rice, cement, construction materials and light engineering products.
He proposed holding Pakistani trade exhibitions in Lebanon and arranging reciprocal business delegations to explore commercial and investment opportunities.
Education was another key area of discussion. The federal minister proposed semester-long student exchange programs between Pakistani and Lebanese universities, with academic credits recognized by both sides.
He also offered to facilitate engagement with Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC) to encourage university partnerships and academic collaboration.
The Minister stressed the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties through tourism, cultural exchanges and sports, proposing exchanges of football, basketball and volleyball teams to promote sporting cooperation and provide athletes with international exposure.
During the meeting, Lebanese Ambassador Issa briefed the minister on the situation in Lebanon, noting improvements in several areas. The ambassador also appreciated Pakistan’s role in promoting peace in the Middle East.
Both sides expressed their commitment to strengthening bilateral engagement and exploring practical initiatives to deepen cooperation between Pakistan and Lebanon.