Ibrahim Qureshi, President All Pakistan Business Forum (APBF) has lauded decision made by the Pakistan-Italy 'Joint Economic Commission' (JEC) for promotion of bilateral trade. Pakistan and Italy have recently agreed to increase bilateral trade to $1.5 billion, raising it from the current volume of $1 billion (fiscal year 2016-2017).
Ibrahim Qureshi congratulated Italy's Deputy Minister for Economic Development Ivan Scalfarotto, who was leading a 25-member distinguished delegation from Italy, on an official visit to Pakistan. He said business communities in both countries fully realised the importance and vast potential of trade between two friendly nations. Some key areas for co-operation have already been identified, along with an agreement to nurture greater economic ties, to gain mutual benefits.
The President of APBF appreciated the strong diplomatic co-operation and efforts of the Italian government and assured the Italian delegates that; "Pakistan wants to further enhance its socio-economic ties with Italy." "The business community in both countries will work together to foster trade relations, through bigger exhibitions and stronger Business-to-Business contacts, supported by the two governments. We are also thankful to Italy for supporting Pakistan in getting the 'GSP plus' from EU," he said.-PR