RAWALPINDI: The ambassador of Tunisia to Pakistan Adel Elarbi paid a visit to the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) and address traders at chamber house.
The ambassador said that Tunisia has great strategic importance and is a gateway for Pakistan to enter the large markets of Africa, European Union and Arab countries. There is need to bring awareness and information on both sides about potential for mutual cooperation, Pakistan has not so far exploited the geographical location of Tunisia for achieving benefits for its economy, he added.
Senior Vice President Badar Haroon, Vice President Fayyaz Qureshi, former presidents and a large number of members and traders were present on the occasion.
The envoy said that Tunisia’s 80% trade was with European Union and Pakistan could promote its exports to Africa and EU by enhancing cooperation with Tunisia. He stressed that Pakistani business community should also visit Tunisia to explore joint ventures and investment in its free economic zones. Adil Elarbi urged that RCCI should form a delegation for Tunisia and his embassy would extend support in making its visit successful. He also appreciated RCCI efforts in promoting trade activities through exhibitions.
Speaking at the occasion, President RCCI, Malik Shahid Saleem, said that Pakistan and Tunisia had enjoyed religious, cultural and socio-political heritage, but the bilateral trade between the two countries was quite negligible. He said both countries should focus on frequent exchange of trade delegations to explore all untapped areas of mutual cooperation.
He identified Information Technology, Gems and Jewelry, Poultry, Pharmaceutical, agriculture, textiles, tourism and industrial machinery as other potential areas of cooperation between Pakistan and Tunisia.
Malik Shahid Saleem assured his full support and cooperation in organizing business opportunity conference and exhibition and said such Business to Business (B2B) meetings can be good source of increasing trade in different export sectors.