Jam Kamal Terms PATDC A Platform For Expanding Pakistan–Africa Economic Cooperation

Jam Kamal terms PATDC a platform for expanding Pakistan–Africa economic cooperation

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 18th Oct, 2025) Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan on Saturday emphasized the importance of the 5th Pakistan–Africa Trade Development Conference (PATDC) as a platform for the business communities of Pakistan and Ethiopia to engage, collaborate, and explore new avenues of cooperation and mutual growth.

The second day of the 5th PATDC and Made in Pakistan Exhibition witnessed remarkable progress at Millennium Hall, Addis Ababa, marked by dynamic B2B meetings, a high-level visit from the African Union, press briefing and gala dinner celebrating the deepening ties between both countries, said a news release.

"This landmark event serves as a vital platform for the business communities of Pakistan and Ethiopia to engage, collaborate, and explore new avenues of cooperation and mutual growth,” the minister said while addressing the PATDC.

A major highlight of the day was the visit of Chairperson African Union Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. He was received by Commerce Minister, and Ambassador of Pakistan to Ethiopia Mian Atif Sharif.

Together, they toured the exhibition and engaged with several Pakistani exhibitors, appreciating their contributions and participation.

Youssouf commended the Government of Pakistan and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) for their strong efforts in promoting South–South cooperation and fostering sustainable trade growth between Pakistan and African countries.

He emphasized that the Pakistan–Africa Trade Development Conference has become an effective model for inter-regional collaboration, aligning with the African Union’s vision to enhance trade integration, industrial partnerships, and inclusive economic growth across the continent.

The day’s business-to-business (B2B) matchmaking sessions attracted a larger turnout of buyers, importers, and investors from Ethiopia, Pakistan, and other African countries.

Discussions centered on manufacturing, agriculture, engineering, pharmaceuticals, and textile industries, leading to new commercial linkages and promising future collaborations.

“Through sustained dialogue and focused initiatives like PATDC, Pakistan is unlocking opportunities for partnership, innovation, and shared growth across Africa,” he said. “Our objective is to build relationships that go beyond trade—anchored in trust, technology, and long-term development.”

Meanwhile, a press briefing was held at the Sheraton Addis, attended by senior government officials, ambassadors, media representatives, and business delegates.

During the briefing, Jam Kamal Khan, Mian Atif Sharif and Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Pakistan Jemal Bakir, underscored the growing momentum in bilateral relations and expressed optimism for deeper private-sector partnerships between the two countries.

The minister commended Ethiopia’s hospitality and emphasized that the conference reflects Pakistan’s proactive global outreach strategy.

He reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to expanding commercial diplomacy and economic cooperation with Africa through long-term engagement and institutional collaboration.

The day concluded with a Gala Dinner, attended by ambassadors, senior officials, business leaders, and members of the media.

The evening featured welcome remarks from Mian Atif Sharif and a speech by Ibrahim Tawab Chairman of the Pakistan Business Forum.

Guests were treated to a colorful cultural showcase featuring Ethiopian and Pakistani performances, symbolizing the enduring friendship and mutual respect between the two nations.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of footballs donated by Ambassador sports Sialkot to four local children’s football clubs—Holata Educational Center, Vision Football Club, Mekansees Football Club, and Kality Football Club—demonstrating Pakistan’s commitment to community engagement and youth development.

It is pertinent to mention here that the final day of the event will feature focused business-to-business engagements, designed to foster long-term trade and investment partnerships between Pakistan, Ethiopia, and other African economies.