Naveed Ahmad Khan Photos Sultan Bashir
ISLAMABAD: The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad hosted a special event to mark “Africa Day 2026” on Monday, with Pakistani and African officials calling for deeper trade, connectivity and South-South cooperation between Pakistan and the African continent.
The Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East & Africa at ISSI organised the event, moderated by CAMEA Director Dr. Amina Khan. It opened with the national anthems of Pakistan and the African Union, specially composed for the occasion. Heads of African missions in Pakistan and Pakistani missions in Africa also participated virtually.
Pakistan Reaffirms Commitment
Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman ISSI Board of Governors, extended greetings on the 63rd Africa Day and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with Africa. He highlighted Africa’s growing role in global affairs and underscored longstanding Pakistan-Africa cooperation.
“Enhanced engagement in trade, education and people-to-people exchanges is essential,” he said, while appreciating CAMEA’s role in promoting dialogue and sustained engagement.
‘Untapped Reservoir of Potential’
Chief Guest Engineer Khurram Dastagir Khan, former foreign minister, congratulated African nations and said the continent is “rising with tremendous opportunities for growth”. He called Africa an untapped reservoir of potential for Pakistan.
He identified lack of banking channels and direct flights as key hurdles but said the foundation for cooperation has been laid. Noting close coordination at the UN and shared voting patterns, he said South-South trade offers major scope. He added that Gwadar Port, improved shipping, banking and digital links can unlock the relationship’s full potential.
From Liberation Support to Economic Ties
Ambassador Brahim Romani, Acting Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps and Algerian envoy to Pakistan, said Pakistan was among the first to support African liberation movements — a legacy Africa appreciates. He urged converting that goodwill into stronger economic cooperation and trade.
Highlighting Africa’s opportunities and Pakistan’s expertise in industry, science and technology, he called for closer institutional and business linkages, more active embassy engagement and greater private sector participation. He also proposed appointing a special envoy for Africa and expressed optimism for growth under South-South cooperation.
Africa’s Vision, Pakistan’s Role
Dr. Amina Khan noted Africa’s journey of resilience and independence, and reaffirmed CAMEA’s commitment to dialogue, research and cultural exchange with Africa.
African Union Commission Chairperson H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said Africa’s vision is rooted in unity, integration and development, and reaffirmed commitment to Agenda 2063 and “The Africa We Want”. He cited AU reforms and the 2026 focus on water, sanitation and climate resilience, alongside calls for justice and stronger global governance.
Additional Foreign Secretary for Africa Hamid Asghar Khan said shifting geopolitics make deeper Pakistan-Africa engagement vital. He highlighted Africa’s potential in agriculture, food security and natural resources, its youth as an asset, and called for expanded cooperation in education, healthcare, IT, pharmaceuticals, tourism and sports, plus stronger connectivity.
The event concluded with an interactive session and stalls set up by African missions showcasing food, products and artwork. Diplomats, academics, students, media and the African diaspora attended.
