Pakistan, Singapore sign MoU on disaster management cooperation

Pakistan and Singapore on Friday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in disaster management as the two countries marked 60 years of diplomatic relations.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Singaporean Foreign Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan exchanged the agreement in Islamabad. It provides for cooperation between Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF).

According to the Foreign Office, the agreement reflects the two countries’ commitment to improving disaster preparedness and response and building resilience against natural disasters.

Earlier, Dar held a meeting with Balakrishnan at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where the two sides reviewed bilateral relations and discussed ways to expand cooperation in trade, investment, connectivity and skills development.

They also emphasised the importance of sustained high-level exchanges, business-to-business cooperation and people-to-people contacts.

The ministers discussed cooperation at multilateral forums and Pakistan’s engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), particularly ahead of Singapore assuming the organisation’s chairmanship in 2027.

Exchanging views on regional and global developments, Dar underscored the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving disputes and promoting lasting peace and stability.

Balakrishnan arrived in Islamabad earlier on Friday at Dar’s invitation. He was received at the airport by the Foreign Office’s director general for East Asia and the Pacific.

The visit coincides with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Singapore. During his stay, the Singaporean foreign minister is also scheduled to meet Pakistan’s leadership.