The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) marked Africa Day 2026 with a high-level gathering in Islamabad, bringing together diplomats, government officials, and business leaders to explore ways of expanding Pakistan’s economic and institutional ties with African countries.

The event underscored growing interest in shifting Pakistan-Africa relations from traditional diplomatic engagement toward broader cooperation in trade, investment, education, and development sectors.

Addressing the ceremony as chief guest, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi said Pakistan’s relationship with African nations is rooted in shared historical struggles and mutual respect. He said there is now a need to translate long-standing political goodwill into stronger economic partnerships, particularly in areas such as hydropower, minerals, agriculture, and industrial development. He also invited African investors to explore opportunities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Additional Secretary (Africa) at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hamid Asghar, said Africa offers significant economic potential due to its growing population, expanding consumer markets, and agricultural resources. He noted that several African countries are open to large-scale agricultural cooperation and encouraged Pakistani businesses to pursue targeted trade missions, assuring government facilitation for such initiatives.

ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood reaffirmed the chamber’s commitment to strengthening Pakistan-Africa business relations through trade delegations, joint ventures, and institutional collaboration aimed at boosting private-sector engagement.

Representing the African diplomatic group, High Commissioner of Mauritius to Pakistan Munsoo Kurrimbaccus described Africa as a rapidly emerging economic region with strong demographic and natural resource advantages. He said the continent’s youthful population presents major opportunities for innovation and long-term economic growth.

Pakistan-Africa Friendship Association Chairman Zafar Bakhtawari called for improved air connectivity between Pakistan and African countries, saying direct routes would help expand trade, tourism, and business exchanges. He also linked stronger connectivity to broader cooperation on global challenges such as climate change and energy security.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks by ICCI Senior Vice President Tahir Ayub, who appreciated the participation of diplomats, government officials, and business leaders in the celebration.

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