M Azam Tariq
The Pakistan and Africa Institute of Development and Research (PAIDAR) can play a vital role in exploring new dimensions of relations between Pakistan and African countries. Historically, Pakistan’s relations with African countries have been stable but limited. In the current global environment, where nations are increasingly seeking more cooperative partnerships to explore new opportunities, there is a notable absence of robust multilateral cooperation between Pakistan and the African continent. Strengthening these relations is crucial for tapping into the vast economic, strategic, and cultural potential that both sides possess. This is where PAIDAR can make a significant impact by facilitating deeper and more meaningful cooperation.
The bilateral trade volume between Pakistan and African countries in the fiscal year 2022-23 stood at US $48.359 million, with exports at US $44.797 million and imports at a mere US $3.562 million. Pakistan’s major exports to African countries include rice, linen, cotton/textile products, ethyl alcohol, tractors, and cement clinkers, while Pakistan imports cocoa paste from Ghana. When we consider that Africa is a continent of 54 countries, this trade volume is notably low, especially when compared to the trade volumes that other developed and developing countries have with Africa. This low figure highlights the need for enhanced trade relations and the identification of new areas for cooperation between Pakistan and African countries.
When PAIDAR was established, there were high hopes that relations between Pakistan and African countries would improve significantly. However, to date, there has been no significant momentum in this direction. One promising area for developing these relations is the blue economy, which encompasses the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs, while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems. Focusing on the blue economy could serve as a strategic bridge for fostering deeper ties between Pakistan and African nations. PAIDAR can effectively support this initiative, provided it is given the necessary opportunities and support to work on both sides.
To initiate this process, it is crucial to attract the attention of officials and policymakers from both Pakistan and African countries. The first step involves creating awareness among these officials about the vast opportunities that enhanced relations with Pakistan could offer. PAIDAR should actively engage in guiding policymakers and stakeholders on both sides about the potential benefits and areas of collaboration, especially in emerging sectors like the blue economy. This could involve organizing conferences, seminars, and policy dialogues to facilitate direct communication and exchange of ideas.
Furthermore, PAIDAR should be given a conducive environment to penetrate the academic and research spaces in both regions. Academic collaboration is essential to foster understanding, share knowledge, and promote mutual interests. By facilitating joint research projects, student and faculty exchange programs, and intellectual dialogue between Pakistani and African universities and think tanks, PAIDAR can serve as a platform for meaningful academic cooperation. Such collaborations can help build a foundation for long-term relations that are grounded in shared values and mutual benefits.
A practical step towards strengthening Pakistan-Africa relations could be the exchange of delegations consisting of experts, professionals, and laborers. These delegations can focus on key sectors such as agriculture, technology, healthcare, education, and particularly the blue economy. Such exchanges would allow both sides to learn from each other’s experiences, best practices, and innovations, thereby building stronger economic and cultural linkages. It would also help foster people-to-people contacts, which are crucial for developing trust and understanding between different cultures and societies.
Additionally, Pakistan can offer African countries a strategic route for trade with Central Asian states. This geostrategic advantage could be leveraged to open new markets and economic opportunities for African nations, thereby making Pakistan an essential partner in their trade and economic strategies. Such initiatives could pave the way for a new era of diplomatic and economic linkages that benefit both regions.
The creation of PAIDAR by Honorable Mushahid Hussain is a timely and visionary initiative that offers immense potential for enhancing Pakistan-Africa relations. However, for PAIDAR to achieve its full potential, it must receive robust support from both governments, as well as from academic, business, and civil society stakeholders. By providing PAIDAR with the necessary resources, policy backing, and collaborative environment, a new chapter of diplomatic, economic, and strategic partnership between Pakistan and African countries can be realized.
In conclusion, PAIDAR has the potential to serve as a catalyst for redefining Pakistan-Africa relations. By focusing on strategic areas like the blue economy, enhancing academic collaboration, promoting trade and investment, and fostering people-to-people contacts, a new era of cooperation and partnership can be established. This partnership would not only bring economic benefits but also contribute to regional stability, sustainable development, and prosperity, creating a win-win situation for both Pakistan and the African continent.
Writer is student at University Of Sargodha.He can be approached at [email protected]
