Uganda keen to explore ties with Pakistan

Both countries can mutually benefit each other in agriculture sector, says minister.

ISLAMABAD: Citing the trade potential East Africa holds for Pakistan, Uganda Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and In-charge of Regional Cooperation Dr Asuman Kiyingi said the long-standing political relations between the two republics should pave the way for economic ties.

He said this while addressing the business community at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI).

Kiyingi said Uganda was an agricultural country with 90% arable land and both countries could share expertise in irrigation, mechanised farming and value addition of agro products to achieve mutually beneficial results.

“Uganda offers vast investment opportunities with easy access to a market of 200 million people of East Africa.”

He added that the Pakistani investors should explore Uganda for investment and joint ventures in areas including energy, food processing, pharmaceuticals and extraction of iron ore.

Kiyingi appreciated the role Pakistan fulfilled by providing training to Ugandans in various fields including medical and scientific research.

“Republic of Uganda President Yoweri Museveni would visit Pakistan this year to explore areas of cooperation that could benefit both countries.”

He said that the ICCI should sign MoUs with the Uganda Chamber of Commerce for establishing a joint council that would help enhance trade ties.

ICCI President Muzzamil Hussain Sabri said Pakistan’s policy reflected its keen desire to improve relations with African countries.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 4^th, 2015.

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