KARACHI, Nov 23: The trade volume between France and Pakistan is on the increase.

This was stated by French Ambassador to Pakistan Regis de Belenel, while talking to APP here. However, he was of the view that the trade volume between the two countries was not as high as it should be.

When asked about his priorities, Mr Belenel, who has assumed his responsibilities recently as new ambassador, said he had two priorities: to get better understanding between the two countries and give more substance to relations in different fields.

“In the political field, I think we have to do more in terms of dialogue on security and strategic matters because of the role of Pakistan in this part of the world.”

The French envoy was of the view that “we have to do more economically”. He pointed out that there was room for foreign as well as French investment in Pakistan. Mr Belenel said the two countries should also develop cultural exchanges.

He said France did a lot for the earthquake victims and that French contributions on this count before the donors’ conference was to the tune of $30 million. “A team of 25 French specialists in rescue operations started working in Balakot just three days after the quake struck. As many as 70 emergency doctors, including surgeons, are also working in the affected areas.”

The envoy said France also dispatched relief goods of about 150 tons and added that at the donors’ conference, the French minister had announced $94 million loan at a very soft-term.—APP