Governor, Ethiopian envoy discuss trade, investment avenues

KARACHI: Sindh Governor Syed Muhammad Nehal Hashmi and Ethiopia’s Honorary Consul General in Pakistan, Ibrahim Khalid Tawab, on Monday discussed expanding bilateral trade, investment and economic cooperation, underscoring the untapped potential for stronger commercial ties between Pakistan and one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies.

During a meeting here at the Governor House, both dignitaries reviewed opportunities to enhance business engagement, promote industrial partnerships and facilitate greater interaction between the private sectors of both countries.

Highlighting Ethiopia’s growing economic significance in Africa, Tawab said the country has emerged as one of the continent’s most dynamic economies, supported by sustained growth, expanding infrastructure and increasing investment opportunities.

“Ethiopia continues to offer a favorable environment for investment across a wide range of sectors,” he said, adding that the country’s economic development has created new opportunities for international businesses seeking access to African markets.

Tawab noted that Ethiopia’s diverse society and tradition of religious and cultural coexistence have contributed to social stability and economic progress, making it an attractive destination for foreign investors.

He said Pakistani entrepreneurs and companies could explore substantial investment opportunities in sectors including pharmaceuticals, textiles, leather products, plastics, chemicals, paper manufacturing and packaging industries.

The honorary Consul General also emphasised the scope for increasing bilateral trade through the import of Ethiopian coffee, oilseeds and agricultural commodities, while expanding cooperation in surgical instruments, manufacturing and other value-added industries.

He called for stronger business-to-business linkages, regular exchanges of trade delegations and closer industrial collaboration to unlock the full economic potential of Pakistan-Ethiopia relations.

Governor reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening economic engagement with Ethiopia and enhancing cooperation in trade, investment and industry.

He said growing collaboration between the two countries would not only create new commercial opportunities but contribute to sustainable economic development and shared prosperity.

Hashmi stressed the importance of institutional cooperation among chambers of commerce, trade organizations and business communities to facilitate investment partnerships and promote long-term commercial engagement.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026