ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi has called for strengthening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Somalia in all areas of mutual interest, particularly trade and economy.

Talking to the outgoing Ambassador of Somalia to Pakistan, Khadija M. Almakhzoumi here in Islamabad on Friday, he said Pakistan has initiated the ”Look Africa Policy”, which would further boost bilateral relations with all African countries. The President thanked Somalia for participating in the two sessions of the Council of Foreign Ministers of OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation) Countries in Islamabad.

He highlighted that Pakistan eagerly welcomed African students and a large number of Somali students were already enrolled in Pakistani academic institutions. The President appreciated the services of the outgoing envoy in promoting bilateral ties between the two countries and conveyed his best wishes for her future responsibilities.