LONDON: President of the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SAARC CCI), Mr. Chandi Raj Dhakal, has emphasized the importance of building stronger economic ties between South Asia, the United Kingdom, and the Commonwealth. This initiative aims to convert institutional dialogue into practical trade and investment opportunities.

According to SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Dhakal's remarks came during a series of high-level meetings in London, with a particular focus on discussions with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The SAARC CCI delegation engaged in detailed conversations with various UK and Commonwealth representatives, addressing topics such as trade and investment, business connectivity, and digital trade.

Mr. Dhakal highlighted South Asia's dynamic economic potential and the necessity for creating business connections that facilitate trade and investment across markets. He noted the critical role of chambers and private-sector institutions in transforming policy discussions into commercial opportunities.

Furthermore, the SAARC CCI delegation met with Dr. Liz Cameron CBE at Scotland House London. Dr. Rohitha Silva, Senior Vice President of SAARC CCI, remarked on the importance of these engagements as a platform for connecting South Asian businesses with UK and Commonwealth markets. Dr. Mariyam Shakeela and Engr. Ghulam Mohammed Alomgir, both Vice Presidents of SAARC CCI, stressed the significance of inclusive regional cooperation and expanding business-to-business engagement.

The discussions in London also included a meeting with the Commonwealth Secretariat Trade Team at Marlborough House, addressing global trade developments and private-sector participation in Commonwealth economic cooperation. Mr. Mark Jenkinson of the South East London Chamber further explored channels for greater cooperation between chambers and businesses.

The engagements were facilitated by Mr. Arif Zaman, Advisor to SAARC CCI in the EU, who played a key role in establishing connections between SAARC CCI and Commonwealth institutions. Mr. Zaman highlighted the potential for these meetings to create sustained institutional linkages and opportunities for trade and investment.

The SAARC CCI delegation comprised senior representatives from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives, Pakistan, and Nepal, continuing efforts to expand international partnerships and foster business cooperation across the SAARC member states.