Rwanda aims to strengthen trade and investment relations


Published on: January 22, 2024.

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Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry Hosts Business Delegation from Rwanda

The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) recently welcomed a high-level business delegation from Rwanda, marking an important step in strengthening bilateral relations and exploring trade opportunities between the two nations. The visit consisted of productive B2B meetings and discussions focused on the extensive potential for collaboration in trade and investment.

Kashif Anwar, the President of LCCI, extended a warm welcome to the Rwandan delegation and emphasized the economic significance of Rwanda within the East African region. Anwar highlighted Rwanda’s remarkable economic progress and positioned it as an emerging force in the region. He encouraged the Rwandan delegates to explore the diverse opportunities available within the Pakistani market. Anwar stressed Pakistan’s readiness to meet Rwanda’s import needs by offering high-quality products at competitive prices.

The High Commissioner of Pakistan to Rwanda, Naeem Khan, praised Africa as a land of opportunities and compared Rwanda to the “Singapore of Africa” due to its rapid development. Khan commended Rwanda’s business-friendly environment, characterized by safety, cleanliness, and green initiatives. He also highlighted the streamlined one-window operation available to facilitate businesses.

Exploring New Trade Routes and Joint Ventures

Both parties acknowledged the importance of establishing direct trade routes between Pakistan and Rwanda, reducing reliance on third countries. The High Commissioner expressed interest in fostering joint ventures across various sectors, including agriculture machinery, rice, pharmaceuticals, sports equipment, and the IT sector.

Kashif Anwar emphasized Pakistan’s strengths in industries such as pharmaceuticals, automotive, furniture, gems and jewelry, construction materials, and safety equipment. He called for collaborative efforts to harness the potential of these sectors, leading to mutual economic growth.

Zafar Mahmood Chaudhry, the Senior Vice President of LCCI, emphasized the need to enhance the existing trade volume between Pakistan and Rwanda. Samuel Abikunda, the Rwandan Commercial Attaché, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and conveyed the delegation’s keen interest in strengthening partnerships. Abikunda highlighted Rwanda’s positive Ease of Doing Business index and its reputation as a safe country for conducting business.

This successful business delegation visit further reinforces the commitment of both nations to foster trade relations and explore new avenues of cooperation. The discussions held during the visit will contribute to enhancing economic ties and opening doors for further collaboration in the future.

Source: The Express Tribune