Islamabad, 15 July 2024 (TDI): The envoys of seven countries, including Zimbabwe, Tajikistan, Rwanda, Argentina, Myanmar, Cambodia, and Botswana, presented their diplomatic credentials to President Asif Ali Zardari during a ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr on Monday.
The President received credentials from the Ambassador-designate of Zimbabwe, Titus Mehliswa Jonathan Abu-Basutu; the Ambassador-designate of Tajikistan, Sharifzoda Yusuf Toir; the High Commissioner-designate of Rwanda, Ms. Harerimana Fatou; the Ambassador-designate of Argentina, Sebastian Sayus; the Ambassador-designate of Myanmar, Wunna Han; the Ambassador-designate of Cambodia, Sok Chea; and the Ambassador-designate of Botswana, Dr. Batlang Comma Serema.
Later, the envoys also held separate meetings with the President of Pakistan .
Zimbabwe: The newly appointed Ambassador-designate of Zimbabwe, Titus Mehliswa Jonathan Abu-Basutu, discussed the potential for enhancing bilateral trade and investment. Zimbabwe and Pakistan have a history of cooperative relations, particularly in the fields of agriculture and education. The President emphasized the opportunities in Pakistan’s agriculture and mining sectors, encouraging Zimbabwean investors to explore these areas.
Tajikistan: Ambassador-designate Sharifzoda Yusuf Toir of Tajikistan expressed his country’s interest in strengthening economic ties with Pakistan. Tajikistan and Pakistan share deep historical and cultural connections, and in recent years, they have seen an increase in collaboration in energy and trade. The President highlighted Pakistan’s strategic position in regional connectivity projects and invited Tajik investments in Pakistan’s energy sector. During the discussion, the recent visit of the Prime Minister of Pakistan to Tajikistan was also highlighted. The ambassador shared various initiatives and work that the embassy has undertaken to foster future collaboration with both countries.
Rwanda: High Commissioner-designate Ms. Harerimana Fatou of Rwanda highlighted the potential for cooperation in the IT and agriculture sectors. Pakistan and Rwanda have been working to enhance their diplomatic and economic relations, with a focus on mutual benefits in trade and technology. The President encouraged Rwandan businesses to take advantage of Pakistan’s investment-friendly environment.
Argentina: Ambassador-designate Sebastian Sayus of Argentina discussed ways to boost trade relations between the two countries. Argentina and Pakistan have a longstanding relationship, especially in sectors like agriculture and sports. The President proposed increased cooperation in the fields of livestock and agriculture, emphasizing the potential for Argentine expertise in Pakistan’s agricultural development.
Myanmar: Ambassador-designate Wunna Han of Myanmar focused on expanding bilateral trade and investment opportunities. Myanmar and Pakistan have maintained cordial relations, with recent efforts to enhance economic ties. The President suggested exploring joint ventures in the energy and mining sectors, highlighting Pakistan’s rich natural resources.
Cambodia: Ambassador-designate Sok Chea of Cambodia discussed the potential for increased economic cooperation. Cambodia and Pakistan have been looking to strengthen their ties, particularly in trade and tourism. The President invited Cambodian investors to explore opportunities in Pakistan’s tourism and IT sectors, emphasizing the country’s diverse cultural heritage and growing technology industry.
Botswana: Ambassador-designate Dr. Batlang Comma Serema of Botswana expressed interest in deepening economic ties with Pakistan. Botswana and Pakistan have a history of friendly relations, with potential for collaboration in various sectors. The President highlighted investment opportunities in Pakistan’s agriculture, IT, and mining sectors, encouraging Botswana to take advantage of Pakistan’s investment-friendly policies.
In his meetings with the envoys, President Zardari emphasized Pakistan’s investment-friendly environment and the numerous opportunities available in the agriculture, livestock, IT, energy, and mining sectors. He encouraged the envoys to promote these opportunities to their respective countries, aiming to foster stronger economic and diplomatic relations.
