Islamabad: Aug 17 (INP) Pakistan has opened a Consulate General in Melbourne to extend necessary services to increasing number of Pakistani community there and to promote relations between the two countries. The event coincided with the commemoration of the 70th Anniversary of Pakistan's Independence and the Seventieth year of the establishment of diplomatic relations with Australia, says a press release received here today from Melbourne, Australia. It was an important occasion to underscore the interest of the Government of Pakistan to further strengthen the relations with Australia and to promote bilateral trade, investment and increased cooperation in education, agriculture and health sectors. In addition to that the Consulate General, would facilitate the ever-growing Pakistani diaspora in Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. Currently, more than 40% of Pakistani students in Australia are enrolled in Victorian Institutions. Hon. Bruce Atkinson, President of the Legislative Assembly of Victoria was the Chief Guest at the event. Hon. Robin Scott MP, Minister of Finance and Multicultural Affairs of the Government of Victoria and Hon. Colin Brooks, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Victoria were the guests of honour. They welcomed the establishment of the Consulate General and congratulated the people of Pakistan on the 70th anniversary of their independence. The importance of promoting bilateral relations including parliamentary exchanges was highlighted and the positive role of Pakistani diaspora in progress and prosperity of Victoria was also appreciated. The Pakistan High Commissioner in her address stated that since her arrival in Australia she had been unrelenting in her efforts to fulfil the promise she had made to the community on opening of Consulate General of Pakistan. The High Commissioner also highlighted the various areas of cooperation between Pakistan and Australia in general and Victoria and Punjab, in particular. INP/AH