RAWALPINDI: Ambassador of Iraq Hamid Abbas Lafta on Thursday visited Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) and urged the business community to play their role in exploring markets in his country.

He stressed the need for enhancing trade and diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The envoy was accompanied by Ayad Ayub Saadi and Shahbaz Ahmed, and was welcomed by RCCI President Usman Shaukat, Vice President Khalid Farooq Qazi, Vice President Fahad Barlas and Executive Committee members.

Ambassador Lafta reiterated Iraq’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and trade ties with Pakistan, underscoring the shared historical, religious and diplomatic bonds between the two nations. While acknowledging the low trade volume, he highlighted the opportunity for increased commerce.

The ambassador noted that about two hundred and fifty thousand Pakistani pilgrims travelled to Iraq annually, especially to Najaf and Karbala (Arbaein), demonstrating the significant movement of people between the two countries.

He also commended the quality of Pakistani products and encouraged the business community to enhance product marketing efforts. He assured the RCCI of Iraq’s support in facilitating the participation of Pakistani businesses in Iraqi exhibitions and trade delegations to expand trade and economic collaboration.

President Usman Shaukat provided an overview of RCCI’s activities, highlighting business opportunities within the region. He noted that the current bilateral trade volume was approximately $240 million, emphasising the need for exploring the untapped potential in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, food and energy.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to deepen commercial ties and foster a stronger economic partnership between Iraq and Pakistan.

The RCCI president presented the chamber memento to the Iraqi envoy.

Published in Dawn, November 1st, 2024