SIALKOT: Ambassador of Portugal in Pakistan Joao Sabido Costa has said that Portugal is keen to develop strong mutual trade ties with Pakistan, saying that there are bright mutual trade opportunities for both countries.

He stated this while talking to Sialkot-based industrialists and exporters on Tuesday. He also visited several industrial units.

Mr Costa advised Pakistani business community to take full advantage of the GSP+ status by ensuring maximum exports to Portugal and other European Union countries.

He encouraged the exporters to direct their business activities towards Portugal assuring them of easy access to international trade markets. He also asked them to participate in the international trade fairs and exhibitions to be held in Portugal soon.

He also stressed upon the need of making effective joint efforts to boost trade, believing that the time is ripe to further build on present trade relations.

Witnessing the manufacturing of numerous goods such as surgical instruments, leather and textile products, musical instruments, kitchenware and cutlery, he was particularly interested in the import of Sialkot-made sport goods.

Khawaja Masud Akhtar, a leading soccer ball exporter, informed the ambassador about the international quality of manufacturing and potential to explore markets of Portugal and other EU countries.

He suggested that exchange of trade delegations and one-to-one meetings between businessmen can go a long way in promoting bilateral trade.

Published in Dawn, July 27th, 2016