KARACHI: High Commissioner of Rwanda, Harerimana Fatou, has called for strengthening trade and investment ties between Pakistan and Rwanda, marking her first visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) as a significant milestone. She emphasized the importance of bilateral relations and encouraged the Karachi Chamber to connect with the Rwanda Development Board to foster these ties.

According to a statement by Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, during a meeting with KCCI, the Rwandan High Commissioner highlighted Rwanda's eagerness to partner with Pakistan despite being a small, landlocked country. She noted that Rwanda, a member of several African economic communities, offers an open market accessible to Pakistani businesses, which could benefit from Rwanda's Free Trade Agreements across the African region.

The meeting was attended by President KCCI Muhammad Jawed Bilwani, other senior KCCI officials, and committee members. The High Commissioner pointed out Rwanda's opportunities for Pakistani investors in sectors like mines and minerals, supported by Rwanda's liberal policies and secure environment.

Rwanda's booming tourism sector, contributing significantly to the national budget, was also discussed. The High Commissioner suggested that Karachi's business community could explore direct imports of Rwandan tea, which currently arrives in Pakistan via Kenya. She also advocated for increased trade in minerals and agricultural products, suggesting Pakistan as an alternative source for Rwanda's imports of rice, cooking oil, and pharmaceuticals.

The Rwandan High Commissioner praised Pakistan's advancements in IT and AI, noting their application in Rwanda's infrastructure. She acknowledged that the recent establishment of the Rwandan Embassy in Pakistan, following the visit of Rwanda's Senate President, was an important step in enhancing bilateral relations.

KCCI President Bilwani expressed optimism about the potential for collaboration in various sectors, despite the current low level of trade between the two countries. He highlighted the scope for joint ventures in agriculture and other industries, advocating for long-term supply agreements to streamline trade processes.

Bilwani also underscored the potential benefits of introducing Pakistani products to African markets and emphasized the role of initiatives like CPEC Special Economic Zones in enhancing economic ties. He concluded that leveraging these platforms could foster a mutually beneficial partnership between Pakistan and Rwanda, promoting increased trade and innovation.