Key points
- Iraqi diplomat visits Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry
- Hopes Pakistani investors take advantage of opportunities in Iraq
- KCCI says it will explore its market more actively
ISLAMABAD: Iraq has suggested establishing a maritime link between its southern port city of Basra and Pakistan’s commercial hub, Karachi, as part of a broader effort to strengthen trade and logistics between the two countries.
According to The Express Tribune, the proposal was put forward by Iraq’s Consul General, Maher Mjhid Jejan, during a visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), where he met with senior representatives to discuss means of enhancing bilateral business relations.
“A sea link between Basra and Karachi could play a key role in bringing the business communities of both countries closer together,” The Express Tribune cited the KCCI official statement as saying. “This connection could improve logistics and strengthen trade routes.”
Quality of Pakistani exports
According to Arab News, relations between Pakistan and Iraq have received a boost with a number of ministerial-level exchanges in recent years.
StartUp Pakistan reported that both countries are also exploring cooperation in defense, intelligence, and counterterrorism. Jejan briefed KCCI officials on Iraq’s newly introduced investment laws, specifically designed to attract foreign investors. He assured the Chamber that these legislative changes would be shared with Pakistani stakeholders to help them better understand and leverage the emerging opportunities in Iraq.
“Immense potential”
Recognising the quality of Pakistani exports, the Iraqi envoy encouraged greater participation from Pakistani exporters and investors in his country’s growing market. He noted that Iraq is experiencing rapid development and offers “immense potential” for trade and investment, inviting Pakistani business leaders to visit Iraq and witness the “peaceful and stable environment” firsthand, The Express Tribune reported.
KCCI officials highlighted the current trade figures and supported the idea of stronger trade links. They also discussed the potential for an oil pipeline between Basra and Gwadar, according to StartUp Pakistan.
Consulate reopens after 23 years
Consul General of Iraq in Karachi, Maher Mjhid Jejan, has expressed the Iraqi Consulate’s strong resolve to acting as a bridge between the business communities of Iraq and Pakistan, with a focus on promoting bilateral trade, investment, and tourism.
Speaking at a meeting during his visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), the envoy said the reopening of the Iraqi Consulate in Karachi after 23 years would help strengthen deep-rooted Islamic and cultural relations, in addition to boosting cooperation in trade and tourism, according to The Express Tribune.
Jejan has assured that the Consulate is available 24/7 to assist and facilitate the business community in Karachi. “We can form a joint working group to identify areas of trade and investment cooperation between the two countries,” he proposed, underscoring that the Consulate would maintain regular contact with KCCI.
