ISLAMABAD, May 6: The Pakistan-Mauritius Joint Working Group (JWG) on trade and investment on Friday agreed to prepare a long-term cooperation framework for strengthening economic, commercial and cultural relations between two countries. According to a joint communiqué issued here after the first meeting of the working group, it was agreed that both the parties would further their level of cooperation for a pragmatic win-win situation.

With a view to continuing the process, it was proposed to hold the next meeting of the JWG in Port Louis in early August 2005. In addition to its participation in the JWG, the private sector interaction would also be enhanced and chambers of commerce of the two countries would hold the second meeting of the Joint Business Council (JBC) in Mauritius concurrently.

A “Made in Pakistan” exhibition would also be organized to showcase the Pakistani business and services sector. It was noted that the ratification of the investment promotion and protection agreement would increase mutual investment opportunities.

The Mauritius delegation was led by the permanent secretary of the prime minister’s office, while the Pakistan delegation was led by the joint-secretary (foreign trade), ministry of commerce.