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Karachi, October 25, 2012 (PPI-OT): The mutual need to have stabilized “Afghanistan” especially in form of trading and economic partner was discussed in detail during a meeting of Mohammad Zubair Motiwala, President PAJCCI with H.E Jonathan T. Ward, Consul – Economic and Commercial Affairs.
Mohammad Zubair Motiwala elaborated on PAJCCI – Pakistan Chapter visit to Afghanistan with high level, 31- member trade delegation from October 7-11, 2012. The prime objective of this visit was to provide an opportunity to the business community across the border to interact with each other for mutually beneficial bi-lateral economic deals. At this platform, Mohammad Zubair Motiwala elaborated on the vision behind establishment of this unique chamber and stated that this is the first step towards strengthening the business relationship between the two neighboring states whereby the business potential is estimated at $10bn but due to political upheavals and certain policies it is currently hovering around $2.5bn only.
He stressed that with the employment of appropriate fiscal measures, eradication of harassment by involved agencies, rationalization of tariffs and by improving other allied governmental policies, the remarkable achievements may be attained and this important trade delegation is a means to this vital purpose i.e. satiating the mutual business desires of businesses across the border.
He further added that during 3rd Board meeting of PAJCCI held at Kabul, historical decisions were taken specifically with respect to APTTA 2010. In that meeting, members from both the sides amicably resolved those issues which were pending since long between the two countries.
Those important resolutions relating to the most pressing issues hampering bi-lateral relationship between the two countries were transformed into a concept paper that was also presented by the PAJCCI board members at the APTTCA meeting held in Islamabad on October 11 and 12, 2012.
Mohammad Zubair Motiwala elaborated that significant business opportunities exists between the two countries and frequent visits in form of such delegations and participation in form of seminars and conferences will surely improve the bi-lateral relations.
He also informed the representatives of US Consulate regarding a joint trade survey that will be conducted between the two countries and also a Joint Economic Co-operation Conference will be held in December 2012 deliberating on important issues related to trade, investment, transfer of expertise and technology between the two nations. Zubair Motiwala also extended his gratitude to President Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, H.E. Mr. Hamid Karzai for allowing multiple entry visa to Pakistani businesses, which was a long standing demand of the business community in Pakistan.
The businesses who are members of PAJCCI will receive 6 months’ multiple entry visa by Afghan Embassy on the recommendation by PAJCCI. H.E Jonathan T. Ward appreciated efforts of PAJCCI and ensured support on behalf of US Consulate in future endeavours.
Ms. Kara Babrowski, Economic Officer and Malik Muhammad Attiq, Commercial Specialist from US Consulate General, Karachi. Junaid Makda, Director, PAJCCI and Ms. Faiza Nasir, Secretary General – PAJCCI was also present at the meeting.
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