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

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar discussed with Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan on Friday the potential re-establishment of direct flights between Pakistan and Singapore. The objective was to promote business travel and strengthen cultural ties, said Dar. The two leaders addressed a press conference following their meeting, where Dar emphasized that Pakistan and Singapore enjoyed long-standing, friendly relations, with Pakistan being among the first countries to recognize Singapore's independence in 1965.

Balakrishnan was on an official visit to Pakistan, marking the first time a Singaporean foreign minister had done so in over two decades. The visit came as both nations commemorated 60 years of diplomatic relations. The two countries reiterated their commitment to strengthening their friendship and cooperation during the talks, which included a focus on political and economic ties, technology and education, and cultural and people-to-people contact.

Dar noted that both sides recognized the untapped potential in their relationship and agreed to hold regular bilateral political consultations and promote high-level exchanges to strengthen cooperation between their governments and institutions. The reopening of the Pakistan Trade and Investment Office in Singapore was also discussed, as was the potential for closer cooperation in education, research and innovation, digital technologies, and artificial intelligence.

The discussion on possible direct flights between Pakistan and Singapore aimed to facilitate business travel and close contact between the two peoples. Pakistan’s engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations as its oldest sectoral dialogue partner was also highlighted, with both leaders agreeing on the importance of sustained high-level exchanges and practical cooperation.