DPM Dar, Balakrishnan discuss possible resumption of direct Pakistan-Singapore flights

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Singapore's Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan met on Friday to explore the potential reestablishment of direct flights between Pakistan and Singapore. Speaking at a press conference alongside Balakrishnan, Dar highlighted the long-standing friendship between the two nations, noting that Pakistan was among the first to recognize Singapore upon its independence in 1965.

The visit of Balakrishnan, a first for a Singaporean foreign minister in over two decades, was particularly significant as both countries celebrated 60 years of diplomatic ties this year. Discussions during the meeting focused on strengthening political and economic ties, expanding cooperation in technology, education, culture, and people-to-people contact.

Additionally, they exchanged views on key regional and international developments, emphasizing the importance of sustained high-level exchanges and cooperation in trade, investment, connectivity, skills development, and promoting business-to-business interactions and people-to-people contacts. The two leaders also discussed Pakistan's growing engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, particularly in the context of Singapore's upcoming chairmanship in 2027.

They exchanged views on regional and global developments, with Dar stressing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving disputes and promoting peace and stability. Later, their remarks from delegation-level talks were televised, with Dar expressing his confidence in reaching a new level of economic relations through economic diplomacy.

The meeting also saw the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on disaster management cooperation between Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority and Singapore's Civil Defence Force.