Ethiopia for forging institutional linkages

Wants to boost bilateral trade to $200m by end 2023

ISLAMABAD:

Ethiopian Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Jamal Beker Abdula has appreciated Pakistan for timely rolling out the “Engage Africa Policy”.

The plan is aimed at exploring areas of mutual economic interests within the African continent through robust economic development and trade.

Speaking at the Islamabad Conclave 2022 on Wednesday, the ambassador called for establishing institutional linkages between Pakistan and the African countries to boost bilateral, regional and multilateral cooperation.

“It is imperative for Pakistan government to strengthen its relations with Ethiopia, which is a gateway to the African continent and connect the former with the latter,” he remarked.

The envoy emphasised that Ethiopia was attaching great importance to advancing the bilateral relationship with Pakistan. “The opening of our mission in Islamabad reflects our commitment in this regard.”

“Currently, trade between the two countries is minimal at $78 million, however, my target is to take it to $200 million by the end of 2023,” said Abdula.

The envoy revealed that a one-window facility was on the cards where investors would have all facilities for import and export under one roof.

Ethiopia is offering multiple incentives to the investors, who will export their products to other destinations after manufacturing in the African country.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 8^th, 2022.

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