ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – Pakistan and African countries reaffirmed their commitment to expanding economic cooperation, boosting bilateral trade, and encouraging investment during the Africa Day 2026 celebration hosted by the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI).

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Invites African Investment

Addressing the event as the chief guest, Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi said Pakistan’s relations with African nations have long been built on mutual respect, shared values, and historical solidarity. He stressed that the time has come to transform these strong diplomatic ties into a dynamic economic partnership focused on trade, investment, education, technology, and people-to-people exchanges. Kundi invited African investors to explore investment opportunities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in hydropower, mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and human resource development, saying the province offers significant potential for international businesses.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Highlights Africa’s Economic Potential

Additional Secretary for Africa at Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hamid Asghar, described Africa as one of the world’s fastest-growing economic regions, highlighting its young population, expanding consumer markets, and abundant agricultural resources. He encouraged Pakistani businesses to actively engage with African markets through organized trade missions and assured participants of the Foreign Ministry’s continued support in strengthening commercial relations.

ICCI Pledges Support for Business-to-Business Engagement

ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mahmood said the chamber remains committed to promoting business-to-business engagement, institutional cooperation, and trade delegations to deepen economic ties between Pakistan and African countries. He noted that stronger partnerships would create new opportunities for investment and sustainable growth.

Mauritius High Commissioner Emphasizes Africa’s Strengths

Representing the African diplomatic group, Mauritius High Commissioner Monsoor Karim Box said Africa’s greatest strength lies in its youthful human capital, complemented by vast natural resources, agricultural potential, and growing tourism opportunities. He said these advantages make the continent a valuable long-term economic partner for Pakistan.

Direct Air Links Urged for Enhanced Connectivity

Chairman of the Pakistan Africa Friendship Association, Zafar Bakhtawari, emphasized the need to establish direct air links between Pakistan and African countries, describing improved connectivity as essential for expanding trade, tourism, and business exchanges. He added that closer economic cooperation would also help both sides address shared global challenges, including climate change, energy security, and sustainable development. The event was attended by ambassadors, high commissioners, diplomats from African countries, senior government officials, business leaders, representatives of the private sector, and members of the diplomatic community, reflecting the growing interest in strengthening Pakistan-Africa economic relations.