ISLAMABAD: Commerce Minister Naveed Qamar has announced that Pakistan is set to launch a business-to-business barter trade policy and encouraged Ethiopian entrepreneurs to take advantage of this opportunity to enhance trade ties with Pakistan.

The minister was speaking at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) alongside Ethiopia’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Misganu Arega.

Mr Qamar emphasised the importance of the private sectors of both countries finalising business contracts and signing deals. He also highlighted the significance of the barter trade system to enhance the volume of bilateral trade.

The minister commended the initiative of establishing a direct flight from Addis Ababa to Karachi, as it would greatly contribute to enhancing connectivity and fostering stronger relations between the two nations.

Mr Qamar highlighted Pakistan’s potential as a market for foreign sectors and encouraged the Ethiopian business delegation to explore joint ventures and investments in Pakistan. He emphasised that Pakistan’s Look Africa policy aimed at strengthening business relations with the entire African continent.

Published in Dawn, May 12th, 2023