KARACHI: The Consul General of the Republic of Iraq in Karachi, Dr. Maher Mjhid Jejan, has urged the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI) to spearhead trade delegations to Iraq, proposing a transformation of Pakistan-Iraq relations into a strategic economic partnership. This call to action came during a farewell luncheon hosted in his honor by KCCI, where he emphasized the potential for expanding bilateral trade, investment, technology collaboration, and cooperation in Artificial Intelligence (AI).
According to Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dr. Jejan highlighted the burgeoning trade momentum following the reopening of the Iraqi Consulate General in Karachi, although he noted that the current level of economic engagement falls short of the countries' potential. Exports from Karachi to Iraq, particularly in rice, seafood, fruits, food products, and pharmaceuticals, have seen an uptick, yet Dr. Jejan believes this is just the beginning. He encouraged Pakistani investors to explore opportunities in Iraq's tourism, infrastructure, and other emerging sectors, citing a new investor-friendly law in Iraq aimed at attracting foreign investment.
Dr. Jejan also pointed to Iraq's recent economic agreements with the United States as a testament to Iraq's commitment to international investment and global partnerships. He underscored the importance of direct air connectivity, facilitated by Iraqi Airways' longstanding flight operations between Pakistan and Iraq, which benefits both businessmen and pilgrims.
During the luncheon, Dr. Jejan reflected on his memorable two-year tenure in Karachi, expressing a commitment to maintain strong ties with KCCI even after his return to Baghdad. Zubair Motiwala, Chairman of the Businessmen Group, commended Dr. Jejan's contributions to strengthening bilateral relations, while highlighting Iraq's substantial import market, which he believes presents significant opportunities for Pakistani exports.
Motiwala noted the potential for Pakistani products to capture a greater share of Iraq's import market, and welcomed proposals for ferry connectivity to enhance commercial ties. KCCI President Muhammad Rehan Hanif praised Dr. Jejan's accessibility and role in fostering closer private sector ties, emphasizing the solid historical, cultural, and religious foundations for expanded cooperation in various sectors.
Rehan Hanif reiterated KCCI's dedication to promoting stronger institutional linkages with Iraqi chambers through business delegations, trade exhibitions, and business-to-business engagements. He assured the outgoing Consul General of continued support and open doors at KCCI, reaffirming the chamber's commitment to deepening Pakistan-Iraq economic relations.