Irish envoy vows to enhance bilateral trade to fullest potential

FAISALABAD: Bilateral trade volume would be enhanced to its fullest potential while more facilities would be offered to the Pakistani students for higher education, said Declan Johnston, Deputy Head of Mission Ireland.

Addressing the business community in Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI), he congratulated President FCCI Farooq Yousaf Sheikh on the 50 years of excellence. He said the resident embassy of Ireland was established about three years ago which helped in further strengthening the bilateral relations. He said “Ireland is a small country but we believe in open trade and business.” He said that a large number of Irish companies are working all around the world.

Earlier, Farooq Yousaf Sheikh welcomed the Irish diplomat and introduced Faisalabad and FCCI. He said that this city was tagged to the textile export but now it has diversified its industrial portfolio. “In this connection, engineering, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food processing, confectionery and other sectors are also growing at a much faster pace,” he said, adding “there was huge untapped potential and we must pool our energies to maximize bilateral trade.” He appreciated the innovative approach of Ireland and said Pakistan could benefit from the achievements of Ireland. He welcomed the visit of the Deputy Head of Mission Ireland and said “it would not only strengthen our relations but also open new opportunities for bilateral trade.”

A documentary about Faisalabad was also screened while Vice President Engr Asim Munir, Waheed Khaliq Ramay, Muhammad Azhar Chaudhary and Zahid Mehmood Butt took part in the question-answer session.

Later, Naveed Akram Sheikh Senior Vice President offered vote of thanks while Farooq Yousaf Sheikh presented FCCI shield and pinned Irish dignitary with special collar pin to mark the 50 Years of FCCI.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026