KARACHI: Caretaker Commerce Minister Gohar Ejaz has reiterated Pakis­tan’s commitment to making Pakistani markets accessible to the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region aimed at tapping the potential for collaboration in agriculture, textiles, engineering, and services.

“This commitment aligns seamlessly with the Look Africa Policy, emphasising Pakistan’s objective to unlock its economic and trade potential, Mr Gohar said while engaging in discussions with Egypt’s Commerce Minister Ahmed Samir who was also the chief guest of the 4th Pakistan-Africa Trade Development Conference (PATDC) and Single Country Exhibition (SCE) in Cairo on Tuesday.

The focus is on facilitating investments and making markets more accessible, contributing to the broader goals of economic growth and cooperation, he added.

He said the 4th PATDC and SCE not only serve as a platform for bilateral discussions but also as a catalyst for the exchange of ideas and strategies to en­hance economic ties. “The event sets the stage for further collaboration, paving the way for increa­sed cooperation and mutual prosperity, Mr Gohar remarked.

Both parties recognised the mutual benefits that can arise from expanding economic and trade ties. The meeting, held in the presence of policymakers and business leaders from various countries, facilitated a convergence of diverse ideas and opinions, creating an enriching environment for meaningful discussions.

The discussions underscored the commitment of both nations to deepening economic cooperation and leveraging each other’s strengths in key sectors.

According to the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), this is the first time Pakistan is bringing 100-plus companies to Egypt to enhance trade and economic cooperation and open new horizons between Egypt and Pakistan.

Published in Dawn, January 10th, 2024