Trade, economic relations in the region can further be developed and enhanced by strong logistic connections: Istanbul Forum

Karachi, February 14, 2014 (PPI-OT): Istanbul Forum for Economic Cooperation between Pakistan, Turkey and Afghanistan held in Ankara, Turkey. The Forum has been attended by Mr. Zakaria Usman President FPCCI along with the Presidents of national Chambers of Turkey and Afghanistan.

The Forum members discussed that the potential for economic integration among Afghanistan, Turkey and Pakistan has not been fully tapped yet, due to weak logistics connections. In a joint declaration the members of the Forum stated that the trade and economic relations in the region can further be developed and enhanced by strong logistic connections which should be extended to Central and South Asian countries.

They said that in December, 2013 Pakistan Railway and Turkish Logistic Company had signed MOU on establishment of Istanbul – Islamabad containers train service but due to lake of its proper schedule it suffers low demand from the freight forwarders.

The members of the Forum suggested that the train service will become more important and potential if it is extend to Afghanistan through trucks via Quetta to Chaman border or Islamabad to Torkham border. They stressed that Pak – Afghan Transit Trade Agreement may be amended accordingly.

The members of the Forum urged on fast track business visa service and endorsement of ECO Trade Agreement and its implementation is the need of the day for the development and enhancement of regional trade between the three countries. The Forum also decided to hold a business and investment conference on Mining sector in Kabul, Afghanistan.

For more information, contact:
M.A.Lodhi
Secretary General
Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI)
B-1, Federation House, Main Clifton Road,
Shahra-e-Firdousi,
Karachi-75600, Pakistan
Tel: 0092-21-35873691, 93-94
Fax: +9221 3587 4332
Email: info@fpcci.com.pk
URL: www.fpcci.com.pk