BY Naveed Miraj and Shahid Qureshi
ISLAMABAD: The speakers at an international event to celebrate ‘Africa Day 2024’ on Friday stressed the importance of a consistent policy, clear vision and long-term strategy for Pakistan to engage with Africa.
The Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East & Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies (ISSI) organized the special event under the theme of “Pakistan’s Contribution to Peace, Security, and Prosperity in Africa.”
The Heads of African Missions in Pakistan and Heads of Pakistan Missions in Africa also spoke at the event.
Stalls showcasing African products and artwork depicting African culture were also set up by African Missions in Islamabad.
Director General ISSI, Sohail Mahmood during his remarks, highlighted Africa’s progress and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)’s impact and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for Africa’s development.
Ambassador Mahmood detailed Pakistan’s ‘Engage Africa’ policy, which helps to expand diplomatic and economic relations through new missions and joint initiatives.
He emphasized the strategic imperative of deepening Pakistan’s partnership with Africa and underlined the importance of a consistent policy, clear vision and long-term strategy in this regard.
Director CAMEA, Amina Khan said the opening of new diplomatic missions in Djibouti, Ghana, Uganda, Rwanda and Ivory Coast, and Ethiopia’s mission in Islamabad, signified strengthened bilateral ties. She also praised Pakistan’s UN peacekeeping efforts and stressed the importance of educational and cultural exchanges for lasting partnerships and shared prosperity.
Dean of African Corps and Ambassador of Morocco, Mohammad Karmoune underscored Morocco’s significant role in African peace and development. He highlighted contribution of Morocco’s personnel to UN peacekeeping mission and involvement in stabilizing regions like Somalia and the DRC.
He said Morocco has made huge investments in Africa’s infrastructure, banking, and telecommunications, including the Morocco-Nigeria Gas Pipeline.
Additional Secretary (Africa), Mr. Shehryar Akbar Khan lauded Africa’s advancements and Pakistan’s support, noting that over 230,000 personnel deployed in UN peacekeeping over six decades.
He also highlighted the “Engage Africa” policy that strengthens ties through training programs, reaffirming Pakistan’s dedication to Africa’s development and peace.
Sector Commander West MINUSCA, Central African Republic (CAR), Brig. Fahad Ayub praised the dedication and significant role of Pakistani peacekeepers in Africa. He added the deployment of 4,000 troops, efforts to enhance female participation, and initiatives like agricultural support, highlighting their impartiality and trust.
The event was attended by diplomats, academics, students, practitioners and members of the business community, civil society, and the media.
