ISLAMABAD, (TDI): A high-level delegation from the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SAARC CCI), accompanied by leaders from the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), met with Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan today.
The discussions were centered around enhancing economic integration and revitalising trade across the South Asian region.
Minister Jam Kamal Khan warmly welcomed the delegation, emphasising the vital role of SAARC as a platform for fostering regional cooperation. He stressed the importance of strengthening trade ties among member countries and assured Pakistan’s commitment to supporting businesses and promoting regional commerce.
The Minister also reflected on the recent Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Conference, underscoring Pakistan’s efforts to improve trade connectivity between Central and South Asia.
He highlighted the need for a rejuvenated SAARC to promote regional trade and suggested the introduction of direct flights between Pakistan and Bangladesh to enhance trade and people-to-people connections.
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During the meeting, the Bangladeshi delegation expressed interest in Pakistani fashion, especially clothing and jewelry, and accepted the Minister’s invitation to visit the Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design (PIFD) in Lahore.
Moreover, Bangladesh highlighted its demand for Pakistani food products, such as onions and potatoes, and showed interest in importing construction materials like stones.
The Nepalese delegation also expressed strong interest in importing vegetables and other agricultural products from Pakistan.
The need for simplified visa policies to boost regional collaboration was a key point of discussion. A Bangladeshi representative highlighted the strong cultural ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, particularly through cricket, and urged the media to play a positive role in bridging gaps and dispelling misinformation.
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Minister Jam reiterated that Pakistan could serve as a gateway to Central Asia for SAARC countries, offering strategic access and opportunities for collective growth. He also mentioned Pakistan’s competitive advantage in human resources, noting the global demand for skilled professionals, such as nurses.
Echoing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision of prioritizing private-sector-led initiatives, Minister Jam proposed organizing business-to-business matchmaking events, similar to those held in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Malaysia.
The SAARC CCI delegation, led by its President Md. Jashim Uddin, expressed enthusiasm for revitalizing SAARC and announced plans to host a SAARC Summit in Dhaka in the near future.
The meeting underscored shared goals and mutual interests, paving the way for enhanced regional cooperation.
The delegations reaffirmed their commitment to advancing trade, cultural exchanges, and connectivity among SAARC countries.
