Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani on Monday stressed the urgent need to bolster economic engagement with Australia, stating that the current bilateral trade volume fails to reflect the true potential of the two nations. The call for intensified efforts came during a meeting with Australian High Commissioner H.E. Timothy Kane at Parliament House.
Mr. Gilani highlighted the agricultural sector as a key area for growth, appreciating Australia”s support for 13 ongoing projects and research partnerships. He expressed optimism that these initiatives would lead to technology transfer, improved market access, and tangible benefits for Pakistan”s farming community. The Chairman also acknowledged a productive visit by Pakistan’s agro-trade delegation to Australia in June 2025 and welcomed support for a proposed biosecurity and capacity-building visit scheduled for early 2026.
The Chairman underscored the importance of educational links, noting that approximately 20,000 Pakistani students are currently pursuing higher studies in Australian universities. He remarked that these students will play a significant role in Pakistan’s future development and prosperity.
In an effort to strengthen political ties, Mr. Gilani called for enhanced inter-parliamentary linkages, advocating for frequent exchanges and interactions at the Parliamentary Friendship Groups level. He asserted that high-level contacts, such as the recent meeting between the two countries” Foreign Ministers at the ASEAN Regional Forum in July 2025, are essential for advancing the bilateral relationship.
Reaffirming the strong bonds between the countries, the Senate Chairman pointed to the vibrant Pakistani diaspora as a bridge between the two peoples and a shared passion for cricket. He recalled his own productive visits to Australia as both Speaker of the National Assembly and Prime Minister of Pakistan.
High Commissioner Kane thanked the Chairman for his candid views, affirming that the two countries enjoy a long and deep relationship. He also offered heartfelt condolences for the losses caused by floods in South Punjab and observed that climate change is having a detrimental impact on Pakistan.
Mr. Gilani reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening cooperation and extended his best wishes to High Commissioner Kane for a successful tenure. He also conveyed congratulations to the Prime Minister of Australia on his recent wedding.
Also present at the meeting were Advisor to Chairman Senate Misbah Khar, who serves as ambassador to the Inter-Parliamentary Speaker Conference, and senior Director General Protocol Tariq Bin Waheed.