Astana, Kazakhstan – On 21 December 2023, the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) and its subsidiary, the International Islamic Food Processing Association (IFPA) , played a pivotal role in the recently concluded Kazakhstan-Pakistan round table on trade and economic cooperation. This significant event, orchestrated by the Chamber of International Commerce Kazakhstan, the Embassy of Kazakhstan in Pakistan, and the Pakistan Ministry of Commerce, served as a dynamic platform for fostering a profound dialogue between the two nations.
His Excellency Mr. Yerzhan Kistafin, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, and a representative of “KAZAKH INVEST”NC" JSC, Mr.Daulet Alibi, engaged in a constructive dialogue, highlighting the vast potential for business cooperation in Pakistan and the compelling investment opportunities offered by Kazakhstan. Mr. Muhammad Farooq, Trade and Investment Consular, provided invaluable insights into the opportunities and challenges in bilateral trade, laying the groundwork for a strengthened economic partnership.
Representing IOFS, the parent organization of IFPA, Dr. Zulfiqar Ali, Director of the Programs and Projects Department, underscored the critical need for sustainable agricultural practices. His emphasis on knowledge exchange and joint initiatives in the agricultural sector set the stage for collaborative efforts in addressing shared challenges.
The participants, representing agri-food, logistics, textile, and medical industries on both sides, engaged in fruitful discussions. Mr. Usman Shah Afridi, Director of TCS Logistics Company, explored logistical strategies aimed at enhancing the efficiency of trade routes between Pakistan and Kazakhstan, promoting a seamless flow of goods and services.
The dialogue culminated in the identification of concrete opportunities for collaboration, signaling the beginning of strengthened economic ties, knowledge-sharing initiatives, and joint projects between Pakistan and Kazakhstan. This collaboration is poised to create a positive ripple effect, fostering economic growth, trade expansion, and sustainable development in both nations.