Pakistan and France reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and supporting regional peace during France’s National Day celebrations held in Islamabad on Friday.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb attended the event as chief guest, alongside UN Under-Secretary Tom Fletcher and French Ambassador to Pakistan Nicolas Galey.
Addressing the gathering, Aurangzeb reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to promoting stability in the Middle East, saying the country would continue its diplomatic efforts to reduce regional tensions. He noted that Field Marshal Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif would continue their mediation initiatives aimed at encouraging peace in the region.
“Pakistan values its longstanding ties with France and remains committed to further deepening this relationship across multiple sectors,” Aurangzeb said.
The finance minister also highlighted the importance of the European Union’s Generalized System of Preferences Plus (GSP+) scheme, saying Pakistan has gained considerably from the trade framework. He noted that stronger economic cooperation under the arrangement has contributed to export growth, employment opportunities and industrial development.
French Ambassador Nicolas Galey reflected on his more than four-and-a-half years in Pakistan, expressing satisfaction with the progress achieved in bilateral relations during his tenure. He praised Pakistan’s efforts to promote regional peace and stability and emphasized the shared interests of both countries on key international issues.
Galey also condemned Russia’s actions in Ukraine, saying the conflict had claimed the lives of innocent civilians. He further voiced support for the Palestinian people and called for urgent international attention and a just resolution to the longstanding conflict.
The event highlighted the warm diplomatic relationship between Pakistan and France, with both sides expressing optimism about expanding cooperation in trade, investment, education, culture and defence.
France remains an important development partner for Pakistan, while Islamabad continues to position itself as a bridge for dialogue across South and West Asia.
France’s National Day, commonly known as Bastille Day, marks the storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, a defining moment that launched the French Revolution and symbolized the principles of liberty, equality and fraternity.
The celebration at the French Embassy brought together diplomats, government officials, business representatives, and members of the Pakistani and French communities.
Officials from both countries agreed that greater people-to-people engagement and cultural exchanges would further strengthen bilateral friendship. They also expressed confidence that closer economic cooperation under GSP+ and continued diplomatic coordination would create new opportunities for collaboration and contribute to regional and global stability.
