Governor Kundi Invites African Investment in KP; Diplomats and Business Leaders Stress Trade, Connectivity, and Partnerships
Naveed Ahmad Khan
ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) hosted Africa Day Celebration 2026, bringing together ambassadors, high commissioners, government officials, diplomats, and business leaders to deepen Pakistan-Africa cooperation.
Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi, Chief Guest, said Pakistan’s ties with Africa are rooted in mutual respect, shared anti-colonial struggles, and a common commitment to sovereignty and sustainable development. “The time has come to convert political solidarity into economic partnership in trade, investment, science, higher education, and people-to-people exchanges,” he said, inviting African investors to explore opportunities in KP’s hydropower, minerals, agriculture, industry, and human capital.
Additional Secretary for Africa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hamid Asghar, termed Africa a market of “limitless opportunities” driven by a young population, expanding consumer bases, and rich agricultural land. He noted several African countries are ready to offer thousands of acres for corporate farming and urged Pakistani firms to plan targeted trade missions, with full facilitation from the Foreign Office.
ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood reaffirmed the Chamber’s role as a bridge for business delegations, joint ventures, and institutional partnerships to expand market access.
High Commissioner of Mauritius H.E. Munsoo Kurrimbaccus, speaking for the African Group, said Africa’s 54 nations are among the world’s most dynamic regions. “Africa’s greatest wealth is its people,” he said, citing the youth dividend, resources, agriculture, and tourism as the basis for strategic cooperation with Pakistan.
Chairman Pakistan-Africa Friendship Association Zafar Bakhtawari said direct air links are essential to unlock trade, tourism, and business potential. He urged the government to prioritize connectivity to strengthen economic, political, and cultural ties and address shared challenges like climate change and energy security.
ICCI Senior Vice President Tahir Ayub conducted the event and thanked participants. The gathering included African ambassadors and high commissioners, the Ambassador of Türkiye, ICCI executive members, and leaders from trade and industry.
