Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani hosted a reception in Islamabad in honour of His Highness Prince Édouard de Ligne La Trémoïlle and Her Highness Princess Isabella Orsini de Ligne La Trémoïlle, underscoring Pakistan’s commitment to deepening ties with Belgium. The gathering highlighted diplomacy rooted in personal engagement and cultural understanding as key drivers of stronger bilateral relations.
The event brought together political and diplomatic figures including Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Deputy Chairman Senate Syedal Khan Nasar and members of the National Assembly Syed Abdul Qadir Gilani, Syed Ali Qasim Gilani, Alauddin Junejo and Sharmila Faruqui. Representatives from the diplomatic corps such as Deputy Chief of Mission of the United States to Pakistan Natalie Baker and members of the Pakistani diaspora in Europe also attended, reflecting broad interest in enhancing people-to-people links.
Chairman Senate Gilani noted that the visit of the Belgian Royals is a symbol of friendship and mutual respect and reiterated Pakistan’s appreciation for Belgium as a trusted partner within the European Union. He praised Belgium’s support under the GSP Plus framework and said such cooperation strengthens economic relations and opportunities for trade and development.
Emphasising the importance of parliamentary diplomacy, Gilani, the founding Chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference, called for increased exchanges between legislative bodies to translate dialogue into practical cooperation in education, culture and parliamentary practice. He also highlighted Pakistan’s ancient civilisation and traditions of hospitality, expressing hope that the royal guests would experience the warmth and sincerity of the Pakistani people.
On wider issues, Gilani stressed that global challenges including climate change, economic uncertainty and threats to peace require coordinated international responses and reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to contribute to regional stability and constructive global engagement. The reception was presented as an opportunity to advance collective understanding and shared values between the two countries.
Prince Édouard de Ligne La Trémoïlle thanked Chairman Senate Gilani for the warm reception, commended Pakistan’s role in promoting dialogue and international peace, and expressed hope that enhanced ties would support efforts to prevent wider conflicts and bolster global stability. The evening reaffirmed a mutual desire to deepen cooperation and friendship between Pakistan and Belgium.
