Australian High Commissioner Neil Hawkins met with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif in Lahore on Friday and discussed a range of issues with her, reported 24NewsHD TV channel.
In the farewell meeting of Australian High Commissioner, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz paid tribute to High Commissioner Neil Hawkins on the end of his distinguished service in Pakistan.
Expanding trade in textiles, food processing, minerals and IT services was also discussed in the meeting.
On the occasion, Maryam Nawaz said Pakistan-Australia bilateral relations and bilateral relations are of particular importance.
Investment, technology transfer and long-term partnership are being promoted under SIFC, Maryam Nawaz Sharif said.
She said Australia and Pakistan are also pursuing a policy of mutual cooperation in agriculture and livestock.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif said we are looking forward to promote cold chain logistics for the import of aquaculture and fisheries.
The visit of the Australian Agriculture Mission to Pakistan last July is a metaphor for deep cooperation in agri-trade, said Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
She said thousands of people from Punjab in Australia not only saw development opportunities but also promoted mutual ties.
Maryam Nawaz said Punjab is also included in Pakistan’s growing strategic partnership with Australia.
Pakistan and Australia are pursuing a policy of cooperation to address the common global challenge of climate change, Maryam Nawaz Sharif said.
She said Australia is an important destination for Pakistani students.
Pakistan values the strong relations with Australia based on mutual respect and lasting friendship, Chief Minister said.
She said we value friendly relations with Australia.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz meets Australian High Commissioner Neil Hawkins for a farewell meeting.
— PMLN (@pmln_org) August 8, 2025
🇵🇰🇦🇺The Chief Minister praised Neil Hawkins for his outstanding services in Pakistan.
🇵🇰🇦🇺They discussed expanding trade in textiles, food processing, minerals, and IT services.… pic.twitter.com/aXDHmhMxgR
It is necessary to increase parliamentary ties and economic cooperation between Pakistan and Australia, Maryam Nawaz said.
Chief Minister said Punjab has great opportunities for Australian investors in the IT and tourism sectors.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif said the Punjab government will provide all possible support to promote investment.
We want to save every drop of rainwater and put it to use, for which necessary steps are being taken, Maryam Nawaz said.
She said we considers the protection of the lives and property of minorities in her province and country as an important duty.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif said Pakistan is a land rich in mineral resources and we want to ensure their better use.
Australian High Commissioner Neil Hawkins said Australia and Pakistan are trusted friends and important economic partners.
Reporter: Rao Dilshad Hussain