Bilwani hopes Pakistan, Afghanistan will resolve outstanding issues

KARACHI: Newly elected President of Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PAJCCI) Muhammad Jawaid Bilwani has expressed the hope that Pakistan and Afghanistan would overcome all differences and resolve outstanding issues through continued engagement.

Speaking at 12th Annual General Meeting (AGM) Bilwani reaffirmed that the Pakistan and Afghanistan business communities would continue working together to raise legitimate trade concerns and seek practical solutions from the respective governments.

He appreciated the efforts of outgoing President Junaid Makda, particularly during a challenging period for Pakistan-Afghanistan trade relations.

Bilwani acknowledged the role played by PAJCCI in facilitating the business community and resolving trade-related issues.

He also appreciated the contribution of Sanaullah Abro, former DGTT, and acknowledged Irfan Javed, the new DGTT, as a dedicated officer.

Said Mahmood, Senior Vice President PAJCCI, thanked the members for their confidence and assured the House that he would actively perform his responsibilities and work alongside to promote trade and stronger economic relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The PAJCCI successfully held its 12th Annual General Meeting (AGM), bringing together members from across Pakistan and reaffirming the Chamber’s commitment to strengthening bilateral trade, regional connectivity, and business-to-business relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

The AGM was chaired by Muhammad Zubair Motiwala, Chairman PAJCCI. Members from Peshawar, Lahore, Islamabad, and Quetta participated through Zoom, while members from Chaman and Karachi attended in person, reflecting the strong engagement and continued commitment of the PAJCCI membership.

Addressing the AGM, Muhammad Zubair Motiwala, Chairman PAJCCI, recalled the establishment of the Chamber in 2012 and acknowledged the contributions of stakeholders from both Pakistan and Afghanistan in building the institution.

He expressed concern over the current state of Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining and strengthening business-to-business engagement. He stated that while security and national interests cannot be compromised, business and politics should be kept separate.

Motiwala also appreciated the continued participation and commitment of PAJCCI’s Afghan Board members and expressed hope that relations between the two countries would improve, enabling both sides to achieve greater economic prosperity.

He announced the names of new office-bearers. Muhammad Jawaid Bilwani — President, Said Mahmood — Senior Vice Presidet and Abdul Ghaffar — Vice President.

Motiwala emphasised that the new PAJCCI team would work collectively to address key issues confronting the business community, including matters relating to FBR Customs and Clearing, GDP, border closure, Afghan checkposts, and Afghan corridors. Abdul Ghaffar, Vice President PAJCCI, also expressed his appreciation to the members for reposing confidence in him.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026