ISLAMABAD: Iraq and Pakistan have the best relations and by starting trade through Gwadar and Basra ports, relations between the two countries can be boosted to new heights.
Both sides are determined to promote their multilateral relations and Pakistan’s workforce has a wide spectrum in agriculture, medicine, and petrochemicals in Iraq.
The two countries also enjoy exemplary defense ties and Iraq recently received a complete Super Mushahk package from Pakistan.
This was stated by Iraqi Ambassador to Pakistan Hamid Abbas Lafta while talking to an ICCI delegation which invited him under the leadership of Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President of Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The ambassador said the two countries always demonstrate perfect harmony in regional and international forums, adding that Iraq is a country of opportunity with a strong economy, with an annual budget of $110 billion, and wants to promote ties with all countries.
He mentioned that although Pakistan and Iraq are linked by strong relations, the trade relations are at the lowest level which needs to be strengthened, and for this, the chambers of both sides can play a significant role.
The plenipotentiary further said that the Iraqi government has presented its national action plan for investment and Pakistani businessmen must come forward to take advantage of these opportunities.
He further stated that the doors of his embassy are open to the business community of Pakistan, especially ICCI and that the embassy will be proud to share Iraq’s business opportunities with the Chamber for the benefit of the business community.
President of Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari said that although both sides have huge potential, the volume of trade is not up to par and direct connectivity between the two brotherly countries was much needed to overcome the problem.
He said that along with many other investment opportunities in various areas, Pakistan also has tourism potential, especially in the northern areas, so the Iraqi side must also take advantage of this opportunity.
He added that the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry will draw up a plan for its participation in a trade exhibition to be held in Najaf in June to showcase its products in Iraq and strengthen trade ties between the two countries.
He further said that ICCI is determined to play its role in promoting trade relations between the two countries.
Speaking on the occasion, UBG Secretary General Zafar Bakhatwari expressed the hope that the ambassador as a dynamic personality will continue to play his role in deepening the ties between the two countries and that in this context the bilateral visits of the top leadership of both sides will be significant.
ICCI Executive Member Ch. Mohammad Ali was also part of the delegation.
