By Adnan Hameed
TWA
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The Ambassador of Algeria in Pakistan Brahim Romani has said that his country was keen to promote trade and economic ties with Pakistan. The Algerian Ambassador stated this during a meeting with the Rawalpindi business community at the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI).
Pakistan and Algeria have a bilateral trade agreement that was signed in February 2023. The two countries have seen an annualized increase in exports from 1995 to 2022, with Pakistan exporting $2.27 million in 1995 and $11.8 million in 2022, and Algeria exporting $115,000 in 2000 and $66.6 million in 2022, he added.
On the occasion, President RCCI Saqib Rafiq gave a summary and briefed the ambassador on the ongoing activities of the Chamber. He said that there are great opportunities to promote bilateral trade between Pakistan and Algeria in various sectors including energy, pharmaceutical and textile etc.
Saqib Rafiq while highlighting the ‘look Africa Policy’ of Government of Pakistan said that Africa has many opportunities for Pakistan, including its abundant natural resources, attractive investment opportunities, and high percentage of young population. Under the ‘Look Africa Plan’ Pakistan is seeking to negotiate preferential trade agreements with three African trading blocs, he further added.
Both sides discussed and showed strong desire to enhance trade, investment, and cultural exchange. Matters related to bilateral relations, investment opportunities, trade facilitation measures, cultural exchange and tourism, diplomatic relations & economic development came under discussion.
Senior Vice President Muhammad Hamza Sarosh, Vice President Faisal Shahzad, Former Presidents Raja Amer Iqbal & Malik Shahid Saleem, Executive Committee Members and distinguished RCCI members were also present.
