ISLAMABAD: The Ambassador of Tajikistan, Yusuf Sharifzoda, and the High Commissioner of the Maldives, Mohamed Thoha, visited the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) on Wednesday to congratulate the newly elected President, Senior Vice President, Vice President, and executive committee members.
In his address, Ambassador Sharifzoda emphasized the strong ties between Tajikistan and Pakistan, highlighting the vast potential for trade and investment between the two brotherly nations.
He pointed out the mutual benefits that could arise from enhanced cooperation, stating that both countries could significantly benefit from leveraging these opportunities for the welfare of their citizens.
Drawing on the long-standing friendship, the Ambassador likened the two nations to “part of the same body and soul,” noting the high demand for Pakistani products not only in Tajikistan but throughout Central Asia. He urged both nations to prioritize the strengthening and expansion of their existing relationship.
Ambassador Sharifzoda also updated attendees on the CASA-1000 renewable energy infrastructure project, which is expected to be completed in 2025, fostering closer collaboration among stakeholders. He invited the Pakistani business community, especially ICCI members, to participate in an upcoming exhibition in Dushanbe on October 24.
High Commissioner Mohamed Thoha of the Maldives spoke about the close ties between Pakistan and the Maldives, highlighting the wealth of investment opportunities in his country despite its smaller size. He encouraged Pakistani entrepreneurs to explore these opportunities and enhance trade relations for mutual benefit.
He suggested that Pakistan could import high-quality Maldivian tuna at competitive rates while reciprocating by exporting vegetables and fruits, thereby bolstering trade between the two nations.
In his welcoming remarks, ICCI President Nasir Mansoor Qureshi expressed gratitude to the distinguished guests for their visit and good wishes for the newly elected leadership. He assured the envoys of ICCI’s commitment to elevating trade relations with both nations, fostering economic growth on both sides.
He reaffirmed ICCI’s dedication to building bridges with chambers of commerce in friendly countries to facilitate ease of business.
Former FPCCI President Zubair Ahmed Malik highlighted the immense investment potential and the need for its effective realization, while Zafar Bakhtawari, Secretary General of the United Business Group, stressed the importance of enhancing air connectivity to strengthen bilateral ties. Bakhtawari noted that the strong bond among Pakistan, Tajikistan, and the Maldives is reflected in shared sentiments and mutual goodwill.
In his vote of thanks, Abdul Rehman Siddiqui, Senior Vice President of ICCI, reiterated that numerous opportunities exist to further enhance relations among the three countries.
The gathering was also attended by ICCI Vice President Nasir Mehmood Chaudhry, executive members, and other notable attendees.
