RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) hosted a dinner reception in the honor of Azerbaijan delegation headed by Deputy Minister of Economy Rufat Mammadov at a local hotel. The ambassador of Azerbaijan Ali Alizade, Acting President of Azerbaijan Export and Investment Promotion Foundation (AZPROMO) Yusif Abdullayev, Hafiz Zeynalov- Head of Department of Interstate Economic Cooperation, Chingiz Garibli deputy head of mission of Azerbaijan in Pakistan and Shandana Gulzar Khan- Parliamentary Secretary of Commerce along with officials of customs, TDAP and Agriculture were also present on the occasion.
The Azerbaijan delegation highlighted the economic reforms being undertaken in the Central Asian state, especially in the non-oil sector and manufacturing of non-oil products. The Minister said that there are all opportunities for bilateral cooperation in the field of tourism as Azerbaijan Government had eased the tourist visa process and also suggested to increase cooperation in oil, Gas and minerals. A detailed discussions were made towards the enhancement in bilateral trade and strengthening relations through exchange of delegations and information about laws and regulations for imports and exports.
President Malik Shahid Saleem said that Azerbaijan is always very friendly and supportive of Pakistan. The cooperation between the two states extends to every sphere ranging from political, economic, technological, security to cultural arenas. Azerbaijan and Pakistan are enjoying good relations that describes them as “friendly and brotherly” countries.
RCCI chief further elaborated the hurdles being faced by two countries in promoting bilateral trade. The banking channel, Air connectivity (direct flights), Tariff barriers, alternate rail and road network, Visa free facility and lucrative incentives should be provided to enhance bilateral trade relations, he added.
He said that China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has now become a reality on the ground. There is a need to explore new avenues of joint ventures and trade connectivity under the umbrella of CPEC. He said Pakistan would become hub of regional connectivity as CPEC would put it on a centre stage due to new energy infrastructure and trade routes. Senior Vice President Muhammad Badar Haroon, Vice President Fayyaz Qureshi, former presidents, members of the executive committee, among others, were also present at the dinner reception.
