KARACHI: Pakistan's Consul General in China, Sardar Muhammad, emphasized the strength of the economic partnership between China and Pakistan, highlighting ongoing efforts to expand bilateral trade relations. He delivered these remarks during a dinner held in honor of a 17-member trade delegation from the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) upon their arrival in Guangzhou, China.

According to Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan, the delegation was welcomed by Muhammad Imran, Trade and Investment Counsellor at the Consulate General of Pakistan in Guangzhou. The dinner featured detailed discussions on topics such as bilateral trade, agricultural cooperation, and increasing Pakistani rice exports. The delegation's business engagements in China were also a focal point.

Consul General Sardar Muhammad noted the significant position Pakistani rice holds in the Chinese market for its quality. He emphasized the importance of trade missions in exploring new markets and fostering long-term business partnerships. He assured the delegation of the continued support from Pakistan's diplomatic mission in China to strengthen trade relations.

During the dinner, delegation leaders Javed Jillani, Rafiq Suleman, and Mahesh Kumar presented a commemorative shield to the Consul General in recognition of the support from the diplomatic mission. The delegation expressed gratitude to the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) for its role in facilitating the trade mission, which they believe will strengthen commercial ties between Pakistan and China.

The delegation's itinerary includes meetings with prominent Chinese trade organizations in Guangzhou, such as the Guangdong Chamber of Commerce of Importers and Exporters and China Cooperative Trade Enterprises Association. Their visit will continue with engagements in Shenzhen and Beijing, aiming to forge new business partnerships and enhance Pakistan's rice exports to China.

The REAP delegation, comprising members such as Javed Jillani, Rafiq Suleman, and Mahesh Kumar, expressed optimism that the visit would open new trade avenues and significantly boost rice exports to China.