Islamabad (T.M Awan): Pakistan reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Pakistan–Africa ties during a high-level roundtable in Islamabad, where officials and diplomats gathered to advance cooperation in trade, education, and diplomacy under the Engage Africa Policy.
Hamid Ali Asghar, Additional Secretary for Africa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, addressed the session titled “Pakistan–Africa Connectivity: Engage Africa Policy.” The Center of Pakistan and International Relations (COPAIR), in collaboration with Pakistan in the World media group, organized the event to highlight Africa’s strategic importance.
“Africa is a continent of immense opportunity,” Asghar said. “Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed stronger engagement, especially in trade and investment. Moreover, expanding institutional linkages will support long-term gains.”
He emphasized that Africa’s population of 1.6 billion across 54 countries presents vast potential. However, Pakistan’s current trade volume with the continent stands at just USD 5.4 billion. Therefore, deeper Pakistan–Africa ties could unlock new markets and foster mutual growth.
Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, President of the Pakistan Africa Institute for Development and Research (PAIDAR), delivered the keynote address. “From Algeria to Zimbabwe, Africa’s diversity is unmatched. Pakistan has historic ties with this continent. Consequently, I believe our cooperation will reach new heights,” he stated.
The roundtable drew strong diplomatic representation. Ambassadors, high commissioners, and deputy heads of mission from Algeria, Rwanda, Sudan, Zimbabwe, Kenya, South Africa, Nigeria, Somalia, Morocco, and Ghana attended. Their presence, in turn, reflected growing interest in expanding Pakistan–Africa ties.
Prominent Pakistani participants included Saleem Ahmad Ranjha (business consultant and former federal official), Amna Malik (Chairperson COPAIR), Zahid Latif Khan (Head Diplomatic Committee RCCI and Founder Islamabad Stock Exchange), Dr. Afshan Malik (renowned spiritual personality), and Tazeen Akhtar (Editor, Pakistan in the World).
In addition to diplomatic dialogue, the event emphasized connectivity, mutual growth, and regional collaboration. As Pakistan continues to implement its Engage Africa Policy, stakeholders expressed optimism. They aim to build stronger Pakistan–Africa ties across multiple sectors, including education, technology, and commercial exchange.
Ultimately, the roundtable reinforced Pakistan’s strategic outreach to Africa. It also showcased the country’s intent to position itself as a proactive partner in the Global South. With consistent engagement and institutional support, both regions stand to benefit from enhanced cooperation.
