RAWALPINDI (special crosspondent) – The Ambassador of Spain to Pakistan, H.E. Carlos Aragón Gil de la Serna, visited the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (RCCI) to engage in high-level discussions aimed at bolstering bilateral trade, investment, and cultural cooperation. During the visit, the ambassador met with RCCI President Usman Shaukat to explore pathways for deepening economic synergy between the two nations.

The meeting was attended by Senior Vice President Khalid Farooq Qazi, Vice President Fahad Barlas, former presidents, Executive Committee members, and a substantial delegation of RCCI members. Similar to the collaborative spirit seen in other national forums, such as the recent Independence Day Ceremony Held at PID Lahore Office, the event underscored the importance of institutional engagement.

Expanding Economic and Agricultural Cooperation

President Usman Shaukat emphasized the untapped potential within the Pakistan–Spain trade corridor. He called for intensified business-to-business linkages and improved market access to facilitate technological exchange and innovation. Shaukat noted that while Pakistan continues to excel in textiles and agro-based commodities, the nation stands to gain significantly from Spanish expertise in modern agricultural practices, including precision farming, advanced irrigation systems, and greenhouse technology.

The dialogue is particularly timely given ongoing discussions regarding the formation of a Joint Working Group on Agriculture. This initiative is expected to provide a formal structure for bilateral cooperation. Market analysts suggest that there is significant room for growth in the export of Pakistani rice, ethanol, potatoes, and maize to Spanish markets, adding to the robust existing trade in textiles.

Diplomatic Gestures and Cultural Exchange

The event also featured the presence of Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme, who attended as the Chief Guest. In a symbolic gesture of partnership, the Spanish Ambassador was presented with a football manufactured in Pakistan—a nod to the country’s world-class sports manufacturing sector. This event mirrors other recent displays of national engagement, such as the Pakistan Independence Day Celebrated with National Fervour at Embassy in Baku.

The Ambassador also took part in the RCCI’s Independence Day celebrations, which included a cake-cutting ceremony, further highlighting the warm diplomatic and cultural rapport between the two countries. The RCCI leadership reaffirmed its commitment to fostering stronger institutional ties and exploring sustainable avenues for mutual economic growth.