Afghanistan seeks to promote Trade and Connectivity with Pakistan: Afghan President Ashraf Ghani

Afghanistan seeks to promote Trade and Connectivity with Pakistan: Afghan President Ashraf Ghani

Lahore, July 01, 2019: Ministry of Commerce and Trade Development Authority of Pakistan organized the “Pakistan – Afghanistan Business Forum” on 28th June, 2019 at Darbar Hall, Governor House Lahore. The event was graced by His Excellency, the President of Afghanistan Mr. Ashraf Ghani who was accompanied by his delegation. Leading businessmen and businesswomen from all major Chambers and Trade Associations representing sectors textile, pharmaceuticals, plastics, poultry, auto mobile industry, fruits and vegetables, rice, flour etc. were present.

In his welcome remarks the Advisor to Prime Minister for Commerce, Textile, Industry and Production and Investment Mr. Abdur Razzak Dawood said, “I look forward to the future with great hope”. He stated that the Prime Minster of Pakistan envisions peace and prosperity in the region. Mr. Razzak Dawood also informed that his meetings with Afghan President and his cabinet were highly constructive and expressed hope that in the follow up meetings scheduled to take place in July some meaningful progress will be made in the interest of bilateral and transit trade between the two countries.

While addressing the audience, Mr. Ghani shared that Afghanistan is committed to promote ease of doing business and providing conducive policy frameworks and infrastructure to increase investment and trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan especially in areas of textile, energy and transport.

He reassured that Afghanistan is cognizant of the magnitude and complexity of issues pertaining to border regulations, visa regimes, transit trade and other areas all of which requires consistent and effective mitigation from both sides. Both sides reiterated their resolve to take the process of this engagement forward for tangible positive outcomes for both the countries and the region.