Rawalpindi,
The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) successfully organized the Business Africa Trade Forum under Pakistan’s “Look Africa, Engage Africa” policy. The Forum brought together ambassadors, high commissioners, trade envoys, business leaders, and policymakers to explore trade and investment opportunities, joint ventures, and enhanced cooperation between Pakistan and African nations.
In his welcome remarks, RCCI President Usman Shaukat highlighted RCCI’s role in strengthening bilateral trade linkages and providing a platform for dialogue. Chairman of the Forum, Zahid Latif Khan, provided an overview of the event’s objectives and significance and role of RCCI in taking leads to explore new avenues and markets including Africa.
Rana Ihsan Afzal Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Commerce and Industries, emphasized the government’s commitment to boosting trade, connectivity, and foreign investment to achieve sustainable economic recovery. He appreciated RCCI’s efforts in promoting new markets for Pakistani businesses. He reiterated that Africa—with a population of 1.5 billion and fast-growing economies—offers immense opportunities for collaboration in textiles, agriculture, IT, renewable energy, leather goods, food processing, and machinery. Pakistan, with its industrial strength and skilled workforce, stands ready to be a reliable partner in Africa’s development journey.
Addressing the Forum, Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, lauded RCCI for bridging gaps between Pakistan and Africa, stating that Pakistan is repositioning itself geo-politically and geo-economically by leveraging its “blue economy” and diverse export portfolio including rice, cotton, marble, and textiles.
Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, President of the Pakistan Africa Institute for Development and Research (PAIDAR), shared his vision on enhancing connectivity with Africa and effectively implementing Pakistan’s Engage Africa Policy.
The event was attended by ambassadors, high commissioners, and senior diplomats from several African countries, including Algeria, Ethiopia, Kenya, Libya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Somalia, Sudan, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. The envoys highlighted current levels of cooperation with Pakistan, identified challenges, and proposed measures to increase bilateral trade and investment.
A special commemoration was also held to honor the outgoing Ethiopian Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E. Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, for his services in strengthening Pak-Ethiopia relations.
The Forum was further graced by dignitaries including Sardar Yasir Ilyas, PM’s Coordinator on Tourism, and H.E. Mr. Khazar Farhadov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan. Dr. Mirza Ikhtiar Baig delivered the vote of thanks, acknowledging the contributions of participants and reaffirming RCCI’s commitment to expanding Pakistan’s trade horizons.
