Islamabad (TDI): The Federal Chapter of the Pakistan Africa Economic Council (PAEC) held its oath-taking ceremony for newly elected office bearers at the COMSTECH Secretariat, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening economic, trade, and educational ties between Pakistan and African countries.
The event drew a diverse gathering of diplomats, vice chancellors of leading universities, senior professionals, and foreign guests, particularly from Africa, underscoring the growing significance of Pakistan–Africa engagement.
Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Commerce, attended the ceremony as Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, he congratulated the newly elected office bearers and stated that the oath-taking ceremony symbolized a renewed commitment to integrity, cooperation, and economic diplomacy.
He highlighted PAEC’s role as a vital bridge between Pakistan and African economies, aligned with the Government of Pakistan’s vision of export-led growth, market diversification, and South–South cooperation. He also underscored Africa’s strong trade potential and emphasized the importance of expanding collaboration in trade, investment, and education.
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Earlier, the ceremony commenced with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the National Anthem. Welcome remarks were delivered by Dr. Abdul Basit, Senior Vice President PAEC Islamabad Region. Addresses were also delivered by Dr. Shahbaz Ali Malik, Founder Chairman PAEC, and Shaikh Rashid Alam, Secretary General PAEC, who outlined PAEC’s vision and future roadmap for strengthening Pakistan–Africa relations.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the announcement of several initiatives aimed at deepening Pakistan–Africa engagement. The PAEC leadership announced 100 scholarships and 100 internships for African nationals in Pakistan to promote education, skills development, and people-to-people linkages.
Additional measures announced included facilitation of visa access, payment facilitation for businesses, and practical support for trade and investment cooperation. Furthermore, a 30 % discount at the Rawal Institute of Health Sciences and the Ujala Centre of Excellence was announced for African citizens.
The oath of office of the newly elected PAEC Federal Chapter office bearers was administered by the Chief Guest, followed by souvenir distribution.
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The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Abdul Wajid, President PAEC Federal Chapter, who expressed gratitude to the Chief Guest, dignitaries, diplomats, and participants. The proceedings were conducted by Muhammad Murtaza Noor, Secretary General PAEC Islamabad Chapter, who formally closed the ceremony, reaffirmed PAEC’s resolve to further strengthen Pakistan–Africa relations through sustained cooperation and partnership.
Sohail Majeed
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
