ISLAMABAD: Chairman Senate Syed Nayyar Hussain Bokhari has stressed the need for enhancing quantum of bilateral trade between Pakistan and Uganda.
He expressed these views in a meeting with Foreign Minister of Uganda Oryem Henry Okello, says a message received from Kampala. He particularly pointed out the potential of Pakistan's defense production industry for exports to Uganda.
In this context, he recommended to finalize the draft MOU on Defense Exports between the two countries. Foreign Minister of Uganda appreciated the role and contribution of Pakistani community in Uganda. He said that most of the Pakistanis were engaged in business of used cars and pharmaceutical.
He invited Pakistani businessmen and agriculturalists to benefit from the Ugandan policy of farm development. The Chairman Senate, while recognizing the potential of agricultural cooperation between Pakistan and Uganda, said that Pakistan will look into the Ugandan offer.
The Chairman Senate asked the Foreign Minister to look into the issues of unnecessary delay and high fee for work permits issued to the Pakistani businessmen.
The Ugandan Foreign Minister undertook to consult the interior Ministry to find an expedited solution.
The Chairman Senate also suggested enhancing interaction between the two countries through frequent exchange of delegations including that of businessmen. The foreign minister promised to encourage the Ugandan Chamber of Commerce to plan a visit to Pakistan.
Earlier, the Chairman Senate held a separate meeting with the Speaker of the Ugandan Parliament. Both leaders agreed to enhance parliamentary exchanges between Pakistan and Uganda. The Ugandan Speaker proposed to consider and sign a memorandum of understanding to establish joint parliamentary friendship group between the parliaments of Pakistan and Uganda.