RAWALPINDI: Ambassador of Brazil Claudio Raja Gabaglia Lins has said his country was the most prominent trade partner of Pakistan in Latin America and was keen to enhance trade with Pakistan.

He stated this during his visit to Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) on Monday.

The RCCI acting president, Saqib Rafiq and members of executive committee welcomed the Brazilian ambassador.

The envoy said the Brazil economy had been ranked second largest economy in Latin America. More than 30pc of exports are being carried out in Agriculture and livestock sector, he said.

He said that Brazil had improved its per hectare yield. He said that poultry meat has a huge potential and Pakistani exporters can take benefit from Brazilian expertise in this sector.

He said that Brazil covered more than 42pc of its energy need through renewable energy. “We are ready to help Pakistan to meet its energy need via renewable energy resources, like wind, solar and coal,” he said.

Speaking on the occasion, the RCCI acting president, Saqib Rafiq, underscored the need for translating the existing goodwill in building solid trade and commercial ties between the two countries.

He suggested that Pakistan should benefit from Brazilian expertise in information technology, dairy farming, livestock and renewable energy and infrastructure sectors. “There is a need to explore non conventional sectors like gem and jewelry, marble, information technology and pharmaceutical,” he added.

The acting president advised the envoy to focus on increasing Pakistan’s exports to Brazil and attracting Brazilian investment for joint ventures. To take the benefit out of the existing opportunities, exchange of delegation is important, he added.

He said that a Brazilian information desk should be set up at the Chamber for the members.

He invited Brazilian companies to the upcoming international expo and conference being organised by RCCI in August this year.

Published in Dawn, March 29th, 2016