KARACHI: Pakistan is going to demand a larger representation in the next South Asia Business Forum (SABF) conference, which is organised by the China Council for Promotion of International Trade every year in Kunming.

Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) Vice Presi­dent Saqib Fayyaz Magoon is expected to take up the matter during the 13th preparatory meeting, which will be held on Thursday in Maldives.

Talking to Dawn on Tuesday, Mr Magoon said that being a major link under China’s One Belt, One Road initiative, Pakistan should have proper representation at the forum, which aims to promote regional trade.

He expressed hope that China would support Pakistan’s demand for a larger representation at the three-day conference.

Mr Mangoo said that despite being a host to the 12th SABF conference early this year, only one representative from the FPCCI participated in the event. Contrary to this, other regional players had larger participation with their representatives introducing and highlighting trade opportunities that their respective countries offered.

The SABF provides countries with an opportunity to promote trade and seek investment. A trade fair is also held in which participating countries display their produce.

Published in Dawn, November 29th, 2017