PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Minister for Industries, Commerce, and Technical Education, Muhammad Adnan Jalil, expressed optimism about the cordial relationship between Pakistan and Afghanistan, based on cultural affinity, border connectivity, and close proximity.
He emphasized the brotherly sentiments shared by the people of both countries and Pakistan’s desire for sustainable peace in Afghanistan, which contributes to the stability of the entire region.
During a meeting with an Afghan diplomatic delegation led by Afghan Consul General Hafiz Mohibullah at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Board of Investment and Trade (KPBOIT) office in Peshawar, Minister Adnan Jalil discussed matters of mutual interest and highlighted the potential for deepening bilateral trade and economic ties. The focus was on facilitating the business and investor communities of both countries.
The minister also extended an invitation to Afghan authorities, traders, and the business community to participate in the upcoming Pak Afghan Expo scheduled to be held in Peshawar in September. He accepted the offer of Afghan officials for the participation of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa investors and relevant officials in the Afghan Business Conference, to be held in Afghanistan in the near future.
Border Trade Between Pakistan and Afghanistan
Border trade was also a topic of discussion, with the minister highlighting its significance as a major source of trade development between Pakistan and Afghanistan. He emphasized the need for Afghanistan, as a trade corridor, to provide facilities for peaceful access to Central Asian countries, enabling cross-border trade and business activities in a conducive environment.
The minister assured the Afghan diplomatic delegation of efforts to provide necessary facilities to Afghan investors and business classes in the province, as well as taking steps to resolve their problems. He highlighted the increasing trade links in the region as a positive development for the overall economic prosperity of the entire region.
The Afghan Consul General expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s continuous support and assistance to Afghanistan, citing the example of hosting millions of Afghan refugees for decades as a demonstration of the strong brotherhood and support between the two countries. He stressed the importance of enhancing bilateral trade for the economic stability of both nations and pledged to facilitate Pakistani trade delegations by easing visa procedures and resolving issues hindering cross-border trade.
Sartaj Ahmad Khan, Coordinator of the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, commended the willingness of Afghan authorities and investors to participate in the upcoming Pak Afghan Expo in Peshawar next month, further enhancing bilateral trade opportunities between the two countries.
