Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani hosted a reception in Islamabad to welcome His Highness Prince Édouard de Ligne La Trémoïlle and Her Highness Princess Isabella Orsini de Ligne La Trémoïlle during the Belgian royal visit. The gathering brought together political leaders, diplomats and representatives of the Pakistani diaspora, including Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Deputy Chairman Syedal Khan Nasar, members of the National Assembly Syed Abdul Qadir Gilani, Syed Ali Qasim Gilani, Alauddin Junejo and Sharmila Faruqui, as well as Natalie Baker, Deputy Chief of Mission of the United States to Pakistan, and Amir Sheikh from the European Pakistani community.
Welcoming the royal guests, Chairman Senate Gilani described the Belgian royal visit as a symbol of friendship and mutual respect, noting Belgium’s status as a long-standing European partner. He underscored Pakistan’s appreciation for Belgium’s support within the European Union, citing the positive impact of the GSP Plus framework on bilateral economic ties and opportunities for expanded trade and investment.
Emphasising the role of people-to-people contacts, Gilani observed that lasting relations are built through cultural exchange, personal connections and meaningful dialogue. He highlighted Pakistan’s ancient civilisation, cultural diversity and traditions of hospitality, expressing hope that the royal delegation would witness firsthand the warmth and sincerity of the Pakistani people.
Addressing the breadth of cooperation, the Chairman Senate pointed to growing engagement in trade, parliamentary exchanges, education, culture and development partnerships. As founding Chairman of the Inter-Parliamentary Speakers’ Conference, he welcomed deeper parliamentary diplomacy between Pakistan and Belgium and stressed the need for collaborative responses to global challenges such as climate change, economic uncertainty and threats to peace.
The Belgian Prince thanked Chairman Senate Gilani for the gracious reception and praised Pakistan’s efforts to promote international peace. He expressed hope that Pakistan’s constructive diplomatic role would help avert wider conflicts and contribute to regional and global stability. The reception concluded with a renewed commitment to stronger Pakistan Belgium ties and continued cooperation across political, economic and cultural spheres.
