Islamabad: Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan said Pakistan is committed to expanding trade relations with Ethiopia and the broader African market.
This came during his meeting with the Ethiopian Ambassador to Pakistan, Ambassador Dr. Jamal Bakr Abdullah, within the framework of the “Look to Africa Policy.”
A press release issued here on Friday said that the discussions focused on bilateral cooperation to ensure the success of the upcoming solo exhibition in Addis Ababa, scheduled to be held in May 2025.
The minister noted that a series of seminars are being organized before the exhibition, with the participation of the business community of both countries to achieve maximum participation and cooperation in Pakistan.
Jam Kamal Khan stressed that the Ministry of Commerce, along with the Pakistan Trade Development Authority, is actively preparing for the event, which aims to connect Pakistani traders with their Ethiopian counterparts and open access to the vast African market of 1.4 billion people.
Jam Kamal reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to the “Look Africa, Engage Africa” policy, stressing the strategic importance of Ethiopia as a gateway to the continent and a hub for sustained economic growth.
He highlighted Ethiopia’s impressive economic statistics, including an 8.4 percent GDP growth rate and the strength of its aviation industry, which has 140 fleets under Ethiopia’s command.
Airlines.
Ambassador Dr. Jamal Bakar Abdullahi provided key insights into Ethiopia’s economic progress and bilateral cooperation.
He informed that Ethiopia exports wheat to global markets and currently operates four weekly flights to Pakistan, with plans to launch direct flights from Lahore and Islamabad soon.
The ambassador praised the growing relations between Ethiopia and Pakistan, noting recent agreements in the fields of trade, business, aviation, science and technology.
He also highlighted Ethiopia’s “domestic economic reforms”, which promote an investor-friendly environment by addressing macroeconomic challenges and enhancing productivity.
Both sides expressed optimism that the One Country Expo in Addis Ababa will not only boost trade between Pakistan and Ethiopia, but will also serve as a platform for Pakistani traders to engage with the broader African market.