ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Malta have agreed to explore opportunities for cooperation in information technology, pharmaceuticals, health and start-ups sectors.

This understanding reached at the second round of bilateral political consultations between Pakistan and Malta that held virtually on Wednesday. Pakistan side was led by Additional Secretary Muhammad Kamran Akhtar, while the Maltese side was led by Ambassador Fiona Formosa.

The entire spectrum of bilateral relations as well as multilateral issues were discussed during the meeting. Both sides underscored the need to expand bilateral ties in all fields of importance. They also reaffirmed their commitment to enhance trade and economic ties and to revive Pakistan-Malta Joint Technical Commission. Both sides expressed satisfaction over cooperation at various international forums, especially at the United Nations and the Commonwealth.

They also exchanged views on issues of regional and global importance, including Jammu and Kashmir dispute, Afghanistan, Palestine, Ukraine, counter terrorism, United Nations Security Council reforms and climate change.

While thanking the Maltese Government for its support to the flood victims in Pakistan, the Additional Secretary briefed the Maltese side on the efforts being made by Pakistan for the rehabilitation and reconstruction work in the flood affected areas. He stressed that the international community should play its role to ensure climate justice. The two sides also agreed to hold bilateral political consultations at regular intervals.