Pakistani parliamentarians on Tuesday called for the establishment of direct air connectivity and the formation of a reciprocal friendship group in Viet Nam’s legislature to significantly enhance bilateral trade, tourism, and diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
The proposals were put forward during a meeting at the National Assembly between the Pakistan-Viet Nam Parliamentary Friendship Group (PFG) and the Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to Pakistan, H.E. Mr. Pham Anh Tuan.
Convened by MNA Ms. Saba Sadiq, the meeting was attended by PFG members Haji Rasool Bux Chandio, Mr. Sadiq Ali Memon, Ms. Akhtar Bibi, Ms. Shaista Khan, Ms. Asia Naz Tanoli, and Ms. Shahnaz Saleem Malik.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Sadiq articulated the high value Pakistan places on its relationship with Viet Nam, stressing that robust inter-parliamentary cooperation is a vital channel for advancing commerce, people-to-people contact, and cultural exchange. She formally expressed the desire for a counterpart friendship group in the Vietnamese National Assembly to institutionalise regular dialogue.
Ambassador Pham Anh Tuan reciprocated the warm sentiments, reaffirming his country’s commitment to strengthening ties. He pointed to the positive momentum in the relationship and identified significant opportunities for expanded cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, renewable energy, and digital technology.
Members of the Pakistani delegation suggested specific sectors for increased collaboration, including textiles, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and halal products. They emphasised the need for greater business-to-business interaction, joint ventures, and the facilitation of trade delegations to unlock commercial potential.
A strong cultural dimension was also introduced, with the parliamentarians inviting Vietnamese officials and cultural bodies to explore Pakistan’s rich Gandhara civilisation, particularly the historic sites at Taxila. The members proposed exhibitions and institutional partnerships as a way to foster a mutual appreciation of shared heritage.
Contributing to the discussion virtually, Ms. Faiza Akhtar, Deputy Head of Mission at the Pakistan Embassy in Viet Nam, offered perspectives on academic linkages and stressed the necessity of sustained coordination between commercial and diplomatic channels.
The dialogue concluded with both sides affirming their dedication to continued parliamentary engagement. It was mutually agreed that structured interaction between the two legislatures would make a meaningful contribution to the strategic partnership between Pakistan and Viet Nam.