Islamabad April 3, 2026( Kamran Raja): Ambassador of Romania to Pakistan, Dr. Dan Stoenescu called on Chairman Senate Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani at his official residence today in Islamabad. The meeting was marked by cordial discussions aimed at further strengthening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Romania across multiple sectors.
Welcoming the Ambassador, the Chairman Senate expressed his pleasure at receiving the recording and choral score of Pakistan’s National Anthem as interpreted by Romania’s prestigious Madrigal–Marin Constantin Choir. He termed the gesture a remarkable cultural initiative that reflects the growing people-to-people connections and cultural exchanges between the two countries. He conveyed his appreciation to the Ambassador, the choir artists, and the Romanian authorities for this unique and thoughtful contribution.
Chairman Gilani also extended his sincere good wishes for the success of Romania’s new government, which assumed office following the presidential elections of May 2025. He underscored Pakistan’s view of Romania as an important country in Eastern Europe and the Black Sea region, acknowledging its role in promoting regional peace and stability.
Highlighting the historical roots of Pakistan–Romania relations, the Chairman Senate reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening cooperation in all areas of mutual interest. He noted that a number of existing agreements and Memoranda of Understanding provide a solid framework for enhancing bilateral collaboration in political, economic, and defense domains. He also appreciated Romania’s constructive role and positive approach towards matters of Pakistan’s interest at the European Union level.
Emphasizing the importance of enhanced political engagement, Chairman Gilani called for increased interaction between the leadership of both countries. The Chairman Senate highlighted the role of parliamentary diplomacy in strengthening bilateral ties. He noted with satisfaction the establishment of a Parliamentary Friendship Group for Romania in the Senate and National Assembly of Pakistan and proposed interaction between parliamentary friendship groups of both countries to further enhance cooperation.
Chairman Gilani underscored Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to peace, stating that Pakistan has consistently played a positive and constructive role in the evolving regional situation. He emphasized that Pakistan seeks peace not only in the region but across the world, reiterating that war is not a solution to conflicts, and that dialogue and negotiations remain the most effective means to win hearts and minds. He reaffirmed that Pakistan has long been a strong supporter of peace and stability in the region.
The Chairman Senate also drew attention to the longstanding Afghan refugee issue, noting that the global community must not overlook this humanitarian challenge. He highlighted that Pakistan has hosted over 3.5 million Afghan refugees for decades and stressed that a durable and dignified resolution of the issue requires sustained support and cooperation from the international community.
Chairman Gilani further informed that he was elected as Chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference (ISC) unanimously and had the honor of hosting its conference in Islamabad last year. He emphasized that peace, security, and development constitute a shared global agenda that requires collective efforts.
On economic and trade relations, Chairman Gilani emphasized that Pakistan is keen to expand bilateral trade and investment ties with Romania. He stressed the need for increased engagement between business communities, including participation in trade fairs and exhibitions.
In the areas of labor and education, Chairman Gilani appreciated Romania’s facilitation in providing work opportunities to Pakistani nationals and expressed Pakistan’s readiness to export more skilled workforce through legal channels. He also highlighted the need to expand academic linkages and promote collaboration between universities of both countries.
The Ambassador of Romania appreciated Pakistan’s constructive role and efforts for promoting peace in the region and affirmed that Romania fully supports Pakistan’s diplomatic stance on these important issues.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to further deepen Pakistan–Romania relations through sustained dialogue, enhanced cooperation, and increased people-to-people contacts.