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LAHORE: Kenya’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Peter Mbogo Njiru, emphasized the potential for increased trade and economic relations between Kenya and Pakistan. Speaking at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), he noted the growing interest of Pakistani entrepreneurs in strengthening bilateral trade, a development he described as promising.
The High Commissioner, along with LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad, highlighted the importance of business-to-business partnerships for sustainable commercial growth. Lt. Gen. Njiru assured that the Kenyan government is committed to facilitating international investors and invited Pakistani entrepreneurs to explore opportunities in sectors like health, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.
Kenya’s strategic location as a gateway to East and Central Africa was emphasized, with Lt. Gen. Njiru noting the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of shipping goods from Karachi to Mombasa. He also praised Pakistan’s Look Africa initiative, aligning it with Kenya’s economic goals.
Mian Abuzar Shad acknowledged the strong diplomatic ties between the two nations, established in 1964, and identified Kenya as a vital trade partner in Africa. He detailed trade figures, noting a trade deficit and expressing a goal to increase bilateral trade to $2 billion in the coming years.
The LCCI President highlighted key exports from Pakistan to Kenya, including rice and textiles, and imports such as tea and dried vegetables. He advocated for diversifying the trade basket and exploring joint ventures in sectors like defense and tourism.
Both countries aim to enhance B2B interactions through trade delegations and exhibitions. The LCCI committed to working closely with the Kenyan High Commission to strengthen economic ties, paving the way for mutually beneficial trade and investment.