Bilawal Bhutto seeks revival
ISLAMABAD: European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell received a telephone call from Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
During the conversation, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari expressed Pakistan’s concerns regarding the expiry of the Black Sea Grain Initiative (BSGI). He sought resumption of the BSGI as early as possible.
He pointed out that the resulting food inflation and food security-related challenges could adversely impact developing countries like Pakistan.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also informed that he had personally spoken to his Ukrainian and Turkish counterparts about the matter.
He expressed hope that through dialogue, efforts to revive the initiative would be successful.
Bhutto urged the EU High Representative to find a solution that would facilitate the renewal of BSGI.
He also conveyed Pakistan’s willingness to contribute to collective efforts in resolving the issue.
Both the Foreign Minister and the EU’s High Representative agreed to maintain active engagement on this and other matters of mutual interest.
Blinken and Bilawal discuss bilateral issues
Earlier, Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari about Pakistan’s economy and Afghanistan-related issues.
In a phone conversation with FM Bilawal, Secretary Blinken reaffirmed a “productive US-Pakistan partnership.” He also emphasized the United States’ commitment to stand with Pakistan in its fight against terrorism.
Local authorities have accused Kabul of harboring terrorists, particularly the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan. The TTP is involved in the rising cross-border terrorism in Pakistan.
He acknowledged the immense suffering of the Pakistani people due to terrorist attacks. Blinken expressed the United States’ dedication to continuing their joint efforts on counterterrorism.
During the call, the two leaders also discussed the destabilizing effects of Russia’s war against Ukraine.
The call took place shortly after General Michael Erik Kurilla, the chief of US CENTCOM, met with Army Chief General Asim Munir in Rawalpindi. Both discussed the regional security situation, mutual interests, and defense cooperation.
Both the United States and Pakistan urged Afghanistan not to allow its soil to be used as a safe haven for terrorists.
The US emphasized that the Afghan Taliban must ensure that their country does not become a base for terror attacks.
