Islamabad (TDI): Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Pakistan Harerimana Fatou called on Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan on Wednesday. The meeting focused on opening new markets and fostering economic cooperation.
This marks a key moment in Pakistan-Rwanda relations. It follows the establishment of Rwanda’s first embassy in Islamabad, signalling a commitment to closer ties.
During the meeting, minister Jam Kamal highlighted Rwanda’s economic growth. He compared the country’s rising GDP to that of Ethiopia and called it a promising market for trade.
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Jam Kamal proposed organizing an East African Community (EAC) trade forum in Islamabad. He suggested that the event could be co-chaired by the EAC President and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Trade ministers from EAC member states would also attend.
“There is great potential for mutual trade,” said the minister, noting Rwanda could export tea to Pakistan, while Pakistan could supply rice.
The minister emphasized Pakistan’s “Look Africa Policy.” He urged identifying key business sectors and connecting stakeholders from both countries.
Opportunities in Trade
Minister Jam Kamal highlighted potential areas for cooperation. These include power, agricultural machinery, food, and pharmaceuticals.
He suggested stronger ties between the chambers of commerce in both countries. He said matchmaking efforts could bring together businesses from Pakistan and Rwanda.
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The minister also proposed that the EAC Business Forum could result in multiple agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs). These would lay the foundation for long-term partnerships.
Exploring New Markets
Rwanda’s High Commissioner expressed interest in Pakistan’s automobile and electric bike industries. She saw these as promising areas for trade.
The minister pointed out Pakistan’s success in mobile phone manufacturing, with 13 companies operating in the sector. He also mentioned the potential of footwear, textiles, and energy-efficient tractors as export items to Rwanda.
“Pakistani tractors are already successful in Africa and could be a valuable export to Rwanda,” he said.
Both sides committed to exploring trade opportunities and expanding economic ties.
