Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has reiterated Pakistan's desire to further expand its engagement with the dynamic ASEAN region.

He was talking to Secretary-General ASEAN Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, on the sidelines of the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum, in Manila today.

The two sides reaffirmed the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and ASEAN and reviewed avenues to further deepen engagement in trade, connectivity, investment and people-to-people exchanges.

Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn acknowledged Pakistan's strategic location, immense economic potential and the broad convergence of interests between Pakistan and ASEAN.

He emphasized the significant scope for enhancing cooperation across diverse sectors and welcomed closer engagement in pursuit of shared prosperity.

The Secretary-General also appreciated Pakistan's constructive role in promoting dialogue and de-escalation amid recent regional developments. He expressed the hope that continued diplomacy would contribute to lasting peace, stability, and sustainable development.

 Both sides agreed to remain closely engaged and work together to advance cooperation in areas of mutual interest.