Pakistan and Norway Agree to Deepen Bilateral Ties During Highest-Level Visit in a Decade

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide arrived in Islamabad on August 13, 2026, for a two-day official visit at the invitation of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar, as reported by Geo News.

Bilateral Talks Focus on Trade and Pending Agreements

Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide held a restricted-format meeting before leading delegation-level talks at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad, according to official statements. Both sides acknowledged that current bilateral trade remains below its potential and agreed to take concrete measures to expand economic ties. According to Geo News, the two leaders committed to expediting the finalization of several pending bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs).

The discussions also covered labor mobility and legal pathways to facilitate the employment of skilled Pakistani workers in Norway. Both ministers highlighted the important contributions of the Pakistani diaspora in Norway in fostering strong people-to-people contacts.

Regional Developments and International Peace

During the joint press conference following their meetings, Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide commended Pakistan for its constructive role in advancing regional and international peace. According to Geo News, Eide specifically noted Islamabad’s constructive engagement during the recent Iran-US conflict and praised the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, and Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir.

Eide warned that prevailing regional tensions pose a threat to global stability and economic growth, while acknowledging Pakistan’s stance during a challenging diplomatic period. The Norwegian foreign minister was received at Islamabad airport by Additional Foreign Secretary for Europe Ambassador Ayesha Ali upon his arrival for the landmark two-day visit.