Pakistan’s engagement with Africa has historical roots and is characterized by mutual respect and cooperation. By harnessing mutual cooperation, Pakistan and Africa can unlock new economic opportunities and foster sustainable development. This has been stated by Pakistan’s Ambassador designate to Mauritius Syed Zahid Raza during his meeting with former President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Secretary General United Business Group Zafar Bakhtawari at Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry here on Monday. He said that deeper engagements with Africa remains a strategic imperative for Pakistan, adding that forging a strong and effective partnership for peace, progress and prosperity is an indispensable goal, which should be advanced through a clear vision, consistent policy, and a long-term strategy.

The Ambassador designate while appreciating the role of Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry in advancing trade relations with friendly countries all over the world said that he would do his level best to strengthen the business to business and people to people relations with Mauritius alongside the diplomatic ties. He said to achieve the objective, he will do his best to organize business delegations’ visits to Mauritius especially the ICCI members for nurturing must needed bilateral business relations.

Zafar Bakhtawari apprised the visiting guest that the Chamber is already Africa focused and has recently celebrated Africa Day in a befitting manner for bringing Pakistan and the African countries closer to each other and that the Ambassador to Mauritius who is known as the best friend of Pakistan was also among the attendees.

He said that in the changed circumstances, Pakistan’s envoys have to work with missionary zeal and devotion for the economic betterment of the country and bringing the countries closer to each other and strengthening business relations especially in the promotion of Pakistan exports and tourism potential. He added that media has also the equal responsibility to promote soft image of the country for the purpose. He also underlined the need for grant of hassle free visas to potential investors for the foreign exchange earnings of the country.

Bakhtawari also informed that in line with the Corporate Social Responsibilities, Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry is installing water filtration plants in different commercial centers of the capital, providing computers to educational institutions and organizing free medical camps.

Those present on the occasion include Abdur Rehman Siddiqui, General Secretary F-7 Markaz, Raja Hassan Akhtar President Blue Area, Raja Javaid Iqbal, President G-9 markaz, Malik Naeem Awan, President G-11 markaz, Ch. Maqsood Tabish, Executive member Nasir Mehmood Chaudhry, Zulqarnan Abbasi , Chaudhry Waseem, Zia Khalid Chaudhry and Ghulam Murtaza Siddique.