ISLAMABAD, Monday, July 14, 2025 (WNP): The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), in a significant move to deepen Pakistan-Spain relations, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Spain’s Casa Asia to promote greater collaboration in academic, research, and think-tank engagements.

The agreement was signed by Ambassador Sohail Mahmood, Director General of ISSI, and José Pintor, Director General of Casa Asia, during a formal ceremony attended by Spanish Ambassador to Pakistan José Antonio de Ory and senior officials from both institutions on Monday.

At the heart of the MoU is the establishment of joint initiatives – most notably the launch of a “Pakistan-Spain Forum” – to facilitate dialogue and cooperation on issues of mutual interest.

Ambassador Sohail Mahmood hailed Casa Asia’s leadership in fostering intercultural dialogue and knowledge exchange, describing the MoU as a timely initiative to address both bilateral and global challenges. “This partnership will explore not only Pakistan-Spain relations but also engage in discussions on the evolving global order, Europe’s emerging role, and future regional security architecture,” he said. He reaffirmed ISSI’s commitment to pursuing meaningful institutional synergies with Casa Asia.

Casa Asia’s Director General José Pintor termed the MoU a “significant milestone,” underscoring the need for a practical and goal-oriented partnership. “Pakistan is a very important country for us. This initiative will help increase understanding and deepen ties between our two countries,” he remarked.

Ambassador José Antonio de Ory expressed optimism about the agreement’s potential to unlock new areas of cooperation, particularly in culture, arts, literature, and investment. He praised the efforts of both institutions for working to broaden the scope of bilateral relations.

The MoU symbolizes a shared vision to foster mutual understanding, enhance people-to-people contacts, and build stronger academic and intellectual bridges not only between Pakistan and Spain but also between Pakistan and Europe at large.