Old allies: Turkish Consul General for strengthening trade ties

Says current trade volume does not depict potential.

KARACHI: Other than expanding defence cooperation with Pakistan, Consul General of Turkey in Karachi Murat M Onart has stressed the need to further strengthen trade relations between Pakistan and Turkey.

Speaking at a meeting during his visit to Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), he showed dissatisfaction towards the current trade volume and said that it does not depict the actual trade potential.

“Pakistan and Turkey have been enjoying strong political, economic and cultural relationships,” he said while expressing support and added that both countries have stood next to each other in difficult times.

“Turkey was the only country to announce one-day mourning over the Peshawar School incident that clearly highlights close ties between the two,” he added.

Responding to a suggestion regarding formation of a committee to improve trade, Onart said that an informal committee can be formed to seek ways and means on how to enhance the existing trade volume between Pakistan and Turkey.

Commercial Attaché of Turkish Consulate in Karachi Murat Mustu said that a delegation from Turkish Jewelry Association was keen on participating in KCCI’s ‘My Karachi-Oasis of Harmony Exhibition’ to showcase and sell the finest Turkish jewelry.

However, in order to make it more attractive for Turkish businessmen, he asked KCCI to convince the concerned authorities in Pakistan to provide special discounts on duties to Turkish exhibitors who are intending to participate in this event.

Speaking on the occasion, Businessmen Group Chairman and KCCI former president Siraj Kassam Teli pointed out that political, cultural and trade relations between Pakistan and Turkey have improved significantly during the past five to seven years.

“Many airlines avoid flying to Pakistan due to security or other concerns but Turkish Airlines continues to expand its operations in Pakistan,” he said while appreciating the Turkish resilience.

Teli was of the view that Turkish Airlines has been providing quality services and the business community was fully satisfied with its facilities. However, he advised the airline to compare its services, including tariffs and baggage facilities, with its peer airlines operating in this region and accordingly offer travelling facilities with a view to attract maximum number of Pakistani passengers.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 21^st, 2015.

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