ISLAMABAD – On Monday, January 26, 2026, Pakistan and Myanmar pledged to revitalize their longstanding relationship through a new framework of “structured engagement.” The announcement came following high-level delegation talks between Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Senator Ishaq Dar, and Myanmar’s Foreign Minister, Than Swe, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This visit marks a rare and significant diplomatic milestone, as it is the first high-level visit from Myanmar since 2015, ending a nearly decade-long gap in top-tier exchanges.
Highlights of the Bilateral Talks
The discussions, which lasted over an hour, covered the “full spectrum” of bilateral relations, focusing on moving past historical cordiality toward practical, result-oriented cooperation.
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Economic & Infrastructure Boost:
Both nations agreed to explore untapped potential in trade and investment. Discussions highlighted collaboration in infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and housing development an area where Pakistan’s construction sector sees significant opportunity. -
Regional Peace & Security:
The leaders exchanged views on regional stability. FM Ishaq Dar emphasized that all contentious regional issues should be resolved through “dialogue and diplomacy.” -
Consular Cooperation:
A key agreement was reached to strengthen coordination on consular assistance, specifically to protect and assist citizens of both nations who fall victim to cross-border cyber-scamming gangs. -
Cultural & Religious Tourism:
The ministers discussed enhancing links through the shared heritage of the Gandhara Civilization, aiming to promote religious tourism and academic exchanges between the two countries.
Historical Significance: 77 Years of Relations
Foreign Minister Than Swe noted that 2026 marks the 77th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations. He reflected on the foundation laid by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Myanmar’s founder, General Aung San, noting that bilateral ties are “rooted in history and mutual respect.”
“Pakistan remains committed to further strengthening our bilateral cooperation through sustained engagement and practical, result-oriented initiatives,” stated Senator Ishaq Dar during the joint press stakeout.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is the Myanmar Foreign Minister visiting Pakistan?
H.E. Than Swe, the Union Minister for Foreign Affairs of Myanmar, is currently on a four-day official visit to Islamabad (starting Jan 24).
2. What was the most significant outcome of the Jan 26 meeting?
The agreement to move toward “structured engagement” across multiple sectors, specifically focusing on trade, infrastructure, and combating international scamming networks.
3. When was the last time a high-level visit occurred between the two?
There has been a significant gap: the last high-level visit from Myanmar was in 2015, while the last top-level visit from Pakistan was in 2012 by President Asif Ali Zardari.
4. What is the focus of their cultural cooperation?
The focus is on the Gandhara Civilization and academic linkages, intended to boost religious tourism and people-to-people exchanges.
