Manila: Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar met Khalilur Rehman, Foreign Minister of Bangladesh and President-elect of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, on the sidelines of the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting in Manila.

They reviewed the positive trajectory of Pakistan-Bangladesh relations and the renewed impetus provided by the Deputy Prime Minister's visit to Bangladesh last year. They reaffirmed their shared commitment to further strengthening bilateral ties.

They welcomed growing engagement between the two countries, including enhanced people-to-people contacts and improved connectivity following the commencement of direct flights this year, and agreed to sustain this positive trajectory. They also exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Meanwhile Ishaq Dar met with Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation Sergey Lavrov on Wednesday in Manila, ahead of the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting.

The two leaders reviewed Pakistan-Russia bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening cooperation in trade, energy, connectivity, and other key areas, as well as enhancing coordination at multilateral forums. They underscored the importance of sustained high-level engagement in advancing the Pakistan-Russia partnership.

They also exchanged views on key regional and international developments and agreed to remain in close contact.

Earlier Ishaq Dar arrived in Manila, Philippines, along with his delegation to participate in the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting. A busy programme of engagements lies ahead, including participation in the ARF Plenary Meeting and bilateral meetings with counterparts on the sidelines.

Upon arrival at the airport, the DPM/FM was received by Elmer G. Cato, Assistant Secretary for the Office of Intelligence and Security Services (OISS), Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) of the Philippines; Pakistan's Ambassador to the Philippines, Ambassador Asima Rabbani; and officials of the Embassy of Pakistan.