Rawalpindi: Pakistani Ambassador-designate to the Netherlands Suljuk Mustansir Tarar visited the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) here on Monday and called on President of the Chamber Mohammad Nasir Mirza. Senior Vice President Osman Ashraf, Vice President Shahraiz A Malik and Chamber members were also present on the occasion.

President Rawalpindi Chamber Nasir Mirza briefed the Ambassador-designate in detail on the ongoing activities of the Chamber and future programs.

He also briefed the Ambassador about the key events organized by RCCI including Gwadar Business Conference, International Chambers Summit (ICS), Business Africa Forum, Building and Construction Expo, and upcoming ICEE and Gems and Jewelery Expo.

Ambassador Suljuk said that the efforts of Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce in promoting trade and business activities are commendable. He said that the purpose of his visit to the Chamber was to enhance contacts and exchange information for the promotion of trade between Pakistan and the Netherlands. The envoy vowed to encourage Dutch investors to explore Pakistan for possible joint ventures and investment in conventional and non-conventional sectors.

He said that the balance of trade between the two countries is in favor of Pakistan. The bilateral trade between Pakistan and Netherland is 1.522 Billion US$ during FY 2021 (11 months- July to May). Pakistan  exports to Netherlands  are US$ 1.113 Billion whereas Pakistan imports from Netherland stands at 409 Million US$.

Despite the COVID-19 epidemic, Pakistan’s economy is now growing rapidly. New sectors and areas will have to be explored in trade and export. Textiles, rice are important imports of Netherlands from Pakistan and added that more areas need to be explored. He said that the Trade and Commercial Consulers would strengthen the liaison with the Chambers. He appreciated the suggestion of the President Rawalpindi Chamber that diplomatic missions abroad should hold virtual meetings with the Chambers of Commerce and share information regarding trade opportunities in their respective countries.