Turkish Ambassador and FCCI Discuss Bilateral Trade Boost

The Turkish Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Mehmet Pacaci, has highlighted the importance of enhancing cooperation between Pakistan and Turkiye in key sectors such as IT, AI, education, health, and tourism. Dr. Pacaci aims to boost bilateral trade from $1 billion to $5 billion, emphasizing the untapped potential for collaboration between the two countries.

Furthermore, Dr. Pacaci acknowledged the mutual support provided by Pakistan and Turkiye on humanitarian and geopolitical issues, including assistance during the earthquake in Turkiye and matters concerning Kashmir and Cyprus. He also praised Turkiye's initiatives in offering educational scholarships to Pakistani students and promoting faculty exchanges.

During a meeting with the President of the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI), Dr. Khurram Tariq, discussions revolved around the city's potential for fostering an IT and AI-friendly environment. Dr. Tariq expressed contentment with the current state of Pak-Turkiye relations but called for a proportional increase in bilateral trade volume.

Dr. Tariq highlighted Turkiye's technological advancements, particularly in Istanbul, proposing the establishment of a Turkish Commercial Office in Faisalabad to showcase Turkish technology. He also mentioned successful joint ventures like the Ralle Cheese Unit, known for exporting its entire production.

The Senior Vice President of FCCI, Dr. Sajjad Arshad, expressed gratitude to the Turkish envoy and advocated for a liberal visa regime for FCCI members and their families. Former FCCI President Mian Muhammad Adrees supported the idea of implementing a visa recommendation mechanism with the Turkish embassy.

The Commercial Counselor of Turkiye, Mr. Nurettin Demir, emphasized the embassy's commitment to providing visas to the business community. The meeting, attended by various FCCI members and Turkish embassy representatives, underscored the significance of strengthening economic ties between Pakistan and Turkiye.