Ambassadors from Central Asia visit LCCI to boost trade

Lahore:  Ambassadors from Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Azerbaijan, and Kazakhstan visited the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Friday to discuss trade and economic opportunities.

LCCI President Kashif Anwar welcomed Ambassador of Turkmenistan Atadjan Movlamov, Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan Ulanbek Totuiaev, Ambassador of Azerbaijan Khazar Farhadov, and Ambassador of Kazakhstan Yerzhan Kistafin, marking the event as historic.

During the visit, the ambassadors and Anwar inaugurated a Business Kiosk, established by the four countries at LCCI, aimed at boosting trade. Senior Vice President Zafar Mahmood Chaudhry, Honorary Consul of Kazakhstan Rao Khalid M. Khan, and Rizwan Fareed also spoke at the event, with Executive Committee Members in attendance.

Anwar emphasized exploring trade potential between Pakistan and Central Asian countries, addressing trade constraints, and leveraging each country's strengths. He highlighted the potential in sectors like energy, agriculture, textiles, IT, pharmaceuticals, surgical instruments, sports goods, and tourism for mutual benefits and economic development.

Ambassador Movlamov noted the significant potential between Pakistan and Central Asian Republics, emphasizing Turkmenistan's natural resources and the trade possibilities in rice, sugar, vehicles, motorbikes, auto parts, LPG, and petroleum products.

Ambassador Farhadov of Azerbaijan supported Movlamov's views, mentioning investment opportunities in Azerbaijan, particularly in the Karabakh region, and the need for increased connectivity and trade diversification. He highlighted Azerbaijan's legal handbook and publications available at the Kiosk to facilitate business.

Ambassador Totuiaev of Kyrgyzstan shared that trade volume between Kyrgyzstan and Pakistan was $20 million last year, with expectations to reach $50 million by year-end. He mentioned direct flights and the significant presence of Pakistani students in Kyrgyzstan.

Ambassador Kistafin of Kazakhstan stressed regional collaboration through connectivity, using Pakistani sea ports and the Karakorum Highway to reach Africa and the Middle East. He announced a twin city agreement between Lahore and Shymkent and highlighted existing banking channels and agreements for goods delivery.

Anwar pointed out that Pakistan's share in Central Asian trade is minimal and emphasized the need for dedicated efforts by embassies and private sectors to capture market opportunities. He suggested improving banking channels and increasing direct flight frequency to enhance trade and economic relations.

The inauguration of the Business Kiosk is seen as a significant milestone towards stronger economic collaboration. The LCCI President appreciated the ambassadors' contributions, hoping the initiative will provide valuable business opportunities in Central Asia and help achieve shared goals.