ISLAMABAD (special crosspondent) – A virtual signing ceremony was held at the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) Headquarters in Islamabad for the signing of the “Arrangement between Pakistan Customs and Hong Kong Customs for Cooperation and Mutual Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters.” The ceremony was presided over by Syed Shakeel Shah, Member Customs (Operations), Federal Board of Revenue.

Representing Pakistan, Ahmad Afan, Chief (International Customs), and Syed Shahir Raza, Secretary (International Customs), Federal Board of Revenue, also participated in the ceremony. This agreement follows recent diplomatic efforts, similar to President Zardari Commends National Leadership for Advancing Pakistan’s Global Interests, aimed at fostering closer international ties.

The Arrangement provides a structured framework for cooperation and mutual administrative assistance between the customs administrations of Pakistan and Hong Kong in customs matters. It covers the exchange of information and intelligence, monitoring of suspected consignments and individuals, and mutual assistance in enforcing relevant customs laws.

The Arrangement reflects internationally recognized standards of customs cooperation promoted by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and reaffirms the commitment of both customs administrations to securing international trade supply chains. As the nation strengthens its economic outreach, this initiative mirrors other successful collaborative efforts seen in events where President Zardari and PM Sharif Inaugurate Historic Yadgar-e-Fatah Monument to celebrate national milestones.

In his remarks, Syed Shakeel Shah warmly welcomed the representatives of Hong Kong Customs and appreciated their cooperation and partnership in bringing the Arrangement into effect. He also commended the efforts of officials from both sides whose dedicated work contributed to finalizing the Arrangement.

Syed Shakeel Shah said the growing cooperation between Pakistan Customs and Hong Kong Customs would play an important role in developing long-term institutional relations between the two administrations and would help address emerging challenges in the customs sector more effectively.

He emphasized that the Arrangement would contribute to effective revenue collection and trade facilitation. He also assured Hong Kong Customs of Pakistan Customs’ continued support in all areas of mutual assistance and cooperation.

Following the signing ceremony, two copies of the document were exchanged between the head of Hong Kong Customs and the Consul General of Pakistan in Hong Kong, formally completing the signing process.

The signing of the Arrangement marks an important step towards further strengthening bilateral customs cooperation between Pakistan and Hong Kong, promoting the exchange of customs-related information and intelligence, and contributing to a secure and efficient international trading environment.