ISLAMABAD; Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to strengthening cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), describing the bloc as a community bound by shared values and vision rather than merely a regional grouping.
The statement came from Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, who served as Chief Guest at the ASEAN Day reception. On behalf of the government and people of Pakistan, he extended heartfelt congratulations to ASEAN member states and their citizens. He praised ASEAN’s transformation over the past 58 years into a dynamic, peaceful, and increasingly integrated community, calling it a source of inspiration for the developing world.
Highlighting ASEAN’s role in fostering peace, mutual understanding, and economic integration, Minister Khichi lauded the successful implementation of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 as proof of the bloc’s institutional strength and collective resolve. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to be a constructive partner as ASEAN moves toward its Vision 2045 goals.
The minister stressed the need to revitalize the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) into a results-oriented platform capable of addressing emerging challenges such as cyber security, food security, climate change, and the ethical governance of artificial intelligence.
Pakistan has been a Sectoral Dialogue Partner of ASEAN since 1993 under its “Vision East Asia” policy. The country maintains resident missions in nine ASEAN capitals and continues to expand bilateral and institutional cooperation. The ASEAN–Pakistan Cooperation Fund (APCF), established in 1999, remains a key mechanism for practical collaboration. Under the recently adopted Practical Areas of Cooperation (PAC) 2024–2028, 31 initiatives have been outlined across all three ASEAN pillars, with almost 30% already implemented.
Looking ahead, Minister Khichi said Pakistan seeks deeper collaboration in climate resilience, public health, poverty alleviation, and gender equality, as well as in cultural exchanges and the preservation of shared civilizational heritage.
Economic engagement was also underscored as a cornerstone of the partnership. In 2022, Pakistan–ASEAN trade reached a record $10 billion. While the growth was welcomed, the minister noted that efforts should be intensified to address the trade imbalance and tap into new investment and joint venture opportunities. He also pointed to Pakistan’s growing digital economy, with over 130 million internet users and one of the largest freelance workforces globally, offering substantial opportunities for collaboration in digital innovation and services. Agriculture, including research, value addition, and sustainable practices, was cited as another promising sector.
The minister also highlighted the role of the Pakistani diaspora in ASEAN countries, whose contributions strengthen people-to-people linkages. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s aspiration to become a Full Dialogue Partner and expressed anticipation for the upcoming official visit of ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn to further deepen institutional and strategic ties.
The event was organized in collaboration with the Niftysphere Institute of Arts and Design, where students showcased captivating performances rooted in traditional art and culture. Speaking to the media, Niftysphere CEO Usman Shah said the institute is committed to promoting Pakistan’s diverse cultural identity worldwide, adding, “We are making every effort to showcase Pakistan’s culture at the international level through our creative platforms and youth talent.”
