Pak-Africa business forum envisions Rwanda as gateway to the continent

ISLAMABAD: In a bid to explore new trade horizons and strengthen economic ties, the Pak-Africa Business Forum organized a High Tea in honour of the Pakistani High Commissioner nominated for Rwanda, Mr. Naeem Khan.

The event was presided over by Mr. Omar Shahid Butt, President of the Pak-Africa Business Forum, who highlighted Rwanda’s potential as a gateway to Africa for Pakistan, opening doors to the entire continent for Pakistani exports.

Distinguished representatives from major Pakistani export sectors, including pharma, textiles, IT, and electrical cables, participated in the event. With their presence, a comprehensive strategy was formulated to boost Pakistani exports to not only Rwanda but also other African countries like Congo.

Addressing the attendees, Mr. Omar Shahid Butt emphasized the significance of the Look Africa initiative, a government endeavour to enhance Pak-Africa trade relations. He underscored the need for support from the private sector to make this initiative a success, and pledged his determination to contribute to the cause in the best interest of the country.

Highlighting Africa’s abundant mineral resources and raw materials, Mr. Butt emphasized the potential benefits for Pakistan’s industries in importing these resources and utilizing them to manufacture export products for the African market.

Mr. Naeem Khan, the Pakistani High Commissioner to Rwanda, shared insights into the promising opportunities in Rwanda’s textile and pharma industries, presenting Rwanda as an ideal hub for Pakistani export products. He lauded Rwanda’s safe and peaceful environment for investors and encouraged Pakistani businesses to explore the potential of the Rwandan market.

Rwanda, being a significant country in Africa with a thriving economy, holds vital importance in Pakistan’s international relations. Mr. Khan expressed Rwanda’s eagerness to collaborate with Pakistan and invited the Pak-Africa Business Forum’s members to explore the business potential in Rwanda.

Emphasizing the importance of the Pak-Africa Business Forum, Mr. Khan praised the forum for playing a pivotal role in enhancing bilateral trade and economic relations between Pakistan and Africa. He also extended an invitation to Mr. Omar Butt and other members of the forum to visit Rwanda and experience its business-friendly environment firsthand.

The discussions at the event culminated in an agreement between Mr. Omar Shahid Butt and the Pakistan High Commissioner to Rwanda to work together in coordinating efforts to open up Rwanda and neighbouring nations as potential markets for Pakistani exporters.

Ghulam Abbas
Ghulam Abbas
The writer is a member of the staff at the Islamabad Bureau. He can be reached at [email protected]

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