Islamabad (T.M Awan): The Business Africa Trade Forum, hosted by the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI), convened in Islamabad. It brought together African ambassadors, high commissioners, trade envoys, and Pakistani business leaders. The goal was to explore new avenues for cooperation under Pakistan’s “Look Africa, Engage Africa” policy.
To begin, RCCI President Usman Shaukat emphasized the chamber’s role in building bilateral linkages. He highlighted the importance of creating platforms for trade and investment dialogue. Forum Chairman Zahid Latif Khan added that the event could unlock opportunities across Africa’s fast-growing markets.
Meanwhile, Rana Ihsan Afzal Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce and Industries, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to boosting trade and connectivity. He noted that Africa’s 1.5 billion population and expanding economies offer “immense opportunities for collaboration.” Key sectors include textiles, agriculture, IT, renewable energy, leather, food processing, and machinery. “Pakistan, with its industrial strength and skilled workforce, stands ready to be a reliable partner in Africa’s development journey,” he said.
In addition, Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, praised RCCI’s efforts to bridge gaps with Africa. He explained that Pakistan continues to reposition itself geo-economically. The country now leverages its “blue economy” and diverse exports, such as rice, cotton, marble, and textiles.
Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, President of the Pakistan Africa Institute for Development and Research (PAIDAR), urged stronger implementation of the Engage Africa Policy. He described Africa as a “land of opportunities” and a vital partner for Pakistan’s future connectivity and growth.
Furthermore, the Business Africa Trade Forum welcomed ambassadors, high commissioners, and senior diplomats from Algeria, Ethiopia, Kenya, Libya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Somalia, Sudan, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Delegates explored cooperation with Pakistan, identified challenges, and proposed actionable steps to deepen trade and investment.
Notably, participants paid tribute to outgoing Ethiopian Ambassador Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula. Speakers recognized his contributions to strengthening Pak–Ethiopia ties and advancing regional diplomacy.
Other dignitaries included Sardar Yasir Ilyas, PM’s Coordinator on Tourism; H.E. Khazar Farhadov, Ambassador of Azerbaijan; and industrialist Dr. Mirza Ikhtiar Baig. Dr. Baig delivered the vote of thanks and reaffirmed RCCI’s resolve to expand Pakistan’s trade horizons across Africa.
As a result of this forum, Pakistan now holds a stronger position to engage with African economies. Moreover, the event reinforced the country’s commitment to South–South cooperation and regional trade diplomacy. In contrast to previous efforts, this initiative reflects a more structured and inclusive approach.
Consequently, Pakistan’s visibility in emerging markets is expected to grow. Moving forward, RCCI plans to host follow-up sessions and sector-specific roundtables to sustain momentum. Trending keywords such as Africa–Pakistan trade, investment in emerging markets, blue economy, and renewable energy partnerships reflect the forum’s alignment with global economic priorities.
