RAWALPINDI: The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) will help Pakistan improve its infrastructure and regional connectivity, said Stephen P Knode, commercial officer from the US Commercial Service on Tuesday.
Mr Knode was visiting the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) where he met with the local business community.
He said the US was committed to improving trade and investment ties with Pakistan and that both countries have good potential for establishing business partnerships.
He invited the business community to attend the Select USA investment summit to be held June 18 through to June 20, 2017.
“More than 45 states are participating in the summit and there are great opportunities for small and medium size companies,” he said.
“I have seen a lot of positive things and I will encourage US companies to take benefit of prospective opportunities in Pakistan,” he said.
The commercial officer appreciated the RCCI’s role in promoting business activities and trade relations by holding exhibitions inside and outside the country.
RCCI President Raja Amer Iqbal said the bilateral trade between Pakistan and the US was less than the potential of both countries and that both Pakistan and the US should focus on the exchange of trade delegations to improve two-way trade.
“Business to business meetings are very important for understanding each other’s requirements. The US should promote trade with Pakistan which is the best way to strengthen Pakistan’s economy,” he said.
The $51 billion CPEC project is part of the $1,465 billion One Belt One Road project, he said. Pakistan’s economic outlook offers a promising future, he said and said more US investors should explore Pakistan for joint ventures and investment in energy, pharmaceuticals, infrastructure development and other sectors.
“The business community thinks CPEC should not be centred on a specific country and it offers great regional connectivity and integration from South Asia, Central Asian countries and beyond,” he said.
The commercial officer was briefed on RCCI’s current and future programmes.
Published in Dawn, April 26th, 2017