Islamabad (GNP): The ambassadors-designate of Norway, Azerbaijan and Switzerland formally presented their credentials to President Asif Ali Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr.
The President congratulated each envoy on the appointment and wished them a successful term in Pakistan.
In all three meetings he discussed ways to strengthen bilateral ties, with an emphasis on economic cooperation, trade and investment, as well as other shared interests.
Meeting Sigvald Hauge, Zardari affirmed Pakistan’s commitment to its long-standing friendship with Norway. He thanked Norway for its support during the devastating 2022 floods and welcomed the bilateral MoU on climate cooperation signed in April 2026.
He pointed to scope for collaboration in renewable energy, maritime affairs, technology, trade and investment, and recognised the role of the Pakistani diaspora in the relationship.
With Irfan Shakiroglu Davudov, the President spoke of the close, fraternal bond between Pakistan and Azerbaijan and said strong political ties should be turned into greater trade and investment.
He saw potential in energy, regional connectivity and defence, welcomed progress in defence-industrial cooperation, and noted that direct flights have helped tourism and people-to-people contact.
Meeting Stephane Laurent Rey, Zardari praised Switzerland’s part in mediation and peace efforts, including hosting technical talks between the United States and Iran at Burgenstock.
He stressed the value of continued cooperation for regional peace and identified openings in trade, investment, pharmaceuticals, IT and cybersecurity, renewable energy, water management and tourism.
Senator Sherry Rehman, Senator Saleem Mandviwalla and Secretary Foreign Affairs Asim Iftikhar Ahmad were also present during these meetings.
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
