December 17, 2002	Tuesday	Shawwal 12, 1423

LAHORE, Dec 16: A joint committee meeting of Austrian and Pakistani officials will be held in March next to discuss the ways to further improve the ties between the two countries, especially in the field of trade.

This was stated by Abu Dhabi-based commercial attache of Austria, Miechael Friedl during a meeting with Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Yawar Irfan Khan here on Monday.

He said there was a lot of scope for improving Austria-Pakistan trade relations as Pakistan with a population of 140 million offered a big market to the Austrian companies.

“Presently, a number of Austrian companies are doing good business in Pakistan,” Friedl said.

He said Austrian Airlines might have a destination in Pakistan in future if the Austrian companies show interest in it. “Pakistan and Austria are enjoying good friendly relations; the decrease in the trade ties is just due to lack of information,” he said.

Me Friedl said he would have a follow-up of the visa problems being faced by the Pakistani businessmen.

Earlier, the LCCI president presented address of welcome.

Honorary consul-general of Austria, Sarmad Amin was also present on the occasion.—APP