KARACHI: Amjad Rafi, Convener International Forums, FPCCI, has said that Pakistan and the Sultanate of Oman are strategic allies and are friendly neighbors.
Addressing an investment webinar between FPCCI and Oman chamber of commerce, he added that both brotherly countries have always enjoyed warm and cordial relations.
Hanif Lakhany, VP FPCCI, said that the potential of the agriculture sector, textiles and food sector is enormous for bilateral cooperation. He also suggested frequent interaction and exchange of trade delegations, trade exhibitions, activation of bilateral business councils, exchange of information, etc.
He profoundly appreciated the presence of ambassadors of both countries and their inspiration for the business communities of both the countries. Hanif Lakhany added that the Pakistani community has been making valuable contributions to the development of Oman, which needs to be increased through more employment opportunities for Pakistani workers in banking, health, education, petroleum and food sectors.
While quoting the statistics, he said that the volume of bilateral trade is US$764 million and is not reflective of the true potential. He also requested the Government of Oman for taking facilitative steps for the simplification of visa issuance procedures for the Pakistani business community.
Redha bin Juma Al Saleh, Chairman OCCI, underlined the need for mutual cooperation and sharing of experiences in different sectors. He also highlighted the need for collaboration in foreign capital investment, chemicals, plastics, metals, minerals, electric equipment, etc., at the economic zones of Oman.
He also discussed the long-term visa availability for investors and tax incentives. K. K. Ahsan Wagan, ambassador of Pakistan to Oman, appreciated the export performance of Pakistan despite the impact of Covid-19.
He said that there could be efficient communications services available for the connectivity of both countries through Gwadar port and Salalah port as infrastructure and other facilities are available on both the ports. He also highlighted the potential of meat exports.
Al Sheikh Mohammed Omer Ahmed Al Marhoon, ambassador of Oman to Pakistan, also discussed the trade opportunities between Pakistan and Oman through Gwadar and Salalah ports and available market access to Pakistan for Oman, Middle East, African nations and Central Asian States.
During the meeting, Pakistan and Oman both presented investment and trade opportunities of their respective countries. From Pakistani side, the presentation was given by Amjad Rafi, convener, International Forums FPCCI. He highlighted the potential of the agriculture sector, rice, seafood, meat, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, pharmaceuticals, textiles, cotton yarn, construction and petrochemicals. He also invited Omani investors to make full use of CPEC-related special Economic Zones.
From the Omani side, the presentation was given by Haura Al Wahaibi on investment opportunities and promoting bilateral trade. Amna Al Sharji apprised the audience of special and free economic zones of Oman. The businessmen from Pakistan and Oman also interacted with each other during the meeting and shared their business experiences and possible collaborations.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2021