Islamabad: Pakistan and Ethiopia have agreed to enhance their bilateral trade, industrial collaboration, and tourism cooperation, focusing on expanding engagement across African markets. Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and Ethiopian delegate Dr. Oumer Hussein Oba convened to discuss these initiatives, emphasizing the transformation of growing relations into practical partnerships.

According to Press Information Department, the meeting outlined plans for a multi-country business forum in Islamabad to showcase Pakistan’s industrial capabilities, aiming to reshape global perceptions and unlock new trade partnerships. Highlights included potential cooperation in agriculture and engineering industries, leveraging Pakistan’s expertise to support African economies. The discussion also covered the burgeoning cosmetics industry, proposing joint ventures to meet rising demand.

The Minister invited the Ethiopian delegation to visit Sialkot, a model of private-sector development, and proposed enhancing direct maritime links to reduce transit times. The dialogue also explored tourism opportunities and planned cultural exchanges, including Ethiopian Airlines’ potential direct flights to Lahore. Both sides agreed on the need for deeper cooperation in education and skills development, viewing this as a pivotal moment for the diversification and industrial cooperation between Pakistan and African nations.