Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan engaged in high-level meetings with Saudi officials to enhance economic cooperation and expand trade and investment opportunities between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. The discussions took place on the sidelines of the 'Made in Pakistan' Exhibition and Business Forum in Jeddah.
During a meeting with Abdul Aziz Alsakran, Deputy Governor of the General Authority of Foreign Trade, both sides underscored the importance of increasing bilateral trade and investment. Alsakran congratulated the Pakistani government on organising a successful trade event, recognising its role in promoting Pakistani products and fostering stronger business ties between the two countries.
In another key discussion, Kamal Khan met with Hassan Moejeb Al-Huwaizy, Chairman of the Federation of Saudi Chambers, to explore institutional collaboration. The minister reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to strengthening economic partnerships and the role of business chambers in driving bilateral trade. He proposed structured Business-to-Business (B2B) networking activities to unlock new trade and investment prospects.
The 'Made in Pakistan' Exhibition and Business Forum, held from February 5-7 at the Jeddah International Exhibition and Convention Centre, brought together top Pakistani companies and Saudi investors. The event provided a platform to showcase Pakistan's industrial potential and explore collaboration in key sectors.
The commerce minister inaugurated Pakistan's first-ever Single Country Exhibition in Saudi Arabia, marking a significant milestone in Pak-Saudi trade relations. Addressing Saudi officials, business leaders, and diplomats, he stressed the importance of strengthening economic ties and showcasing Pakistan's diverse industrial base.
"This event is a testament to the enduring relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, rooted in shared faith, cultural ties, and strategic partnership," he stated. He highlighted Pakistan's expertise in textiles, sports goods, light engineering, food, and construction materials, stressing the government's commitment to expanding trade through strategic initiatives.
The minister noted Pakistan's evolving industrial base and its potential for collaboration, particularly in food security, energy, mining, and human resource development. He underscored the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council in prioritising Saudi investments in Pakistan.
Kamal Khan also acknowledged the significant contributions of the 2.7 million-strong Pakistani diaspora in Saudi Arabia. He pointed out that over 1.7 million Pakistani workers have migrated to the Kingdom in the past five years, making it the top destination for Pakistani emigrants.
Highlighting Pakistan's globally renowned football manufacturing industry, the minister congratulated Saudi Arabia on securing the bid to host the 2034 FIFA World Cup. He expressed confidence that Pakistan would continue producing FIFA footballs, following its legacy of manufacturing for past tournaments. "From Brazuca to Telstar to Al-Rihla, Pakistani footballs have a rich history with FIFA. We look forward to contributing to FIFA 2034," he stated.
The minister also called for deeper collaborations between Pakistani and Saudi businesses, under scoring joint ventures targeting markets in Africa, Central Asia, and the Far East. "Together, we can explore new markets and create successful trilateral partnerships, leveraging the vast experience of Pakistani entrepreneurs," he remarked.
The 'Made in Pakistan' exhibition featured 137 Pakistani companies and was attended by prominent Saudi officials, diplomats, and business leaders.
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