Addis ababa: The 5th Pakistan-Africa Trade Development Conference and ‘Made in Pakistan’ Single Country Exhibition took place in Addis Ababa, bringing together more than 120 Pakistani companies and hundreds of business representatives from across Africa. Federal Minister for Commerce of Pakistan, Jam Kamal Khan, stated that the event marked ‘a significant milestone in Pakistan’s Look Africa policy,’ and highlighted the government’s efforts to expand its relationship with African nations.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, more than 100 Pakistani companies from various sectors – including pharmaceuticals, textiles, surgical equipment, IT services, home appliances, and light manufacturing – showcased their products at the Ethiopian Skylight Trade Center. Khan emphasized Ethiopia’s strategic location as a gateway for Pakistani investors and exporters to the continent.
Khan also praised Ethiopia’s infrastructure and hospitality, expressing optimism for future collaboration in agriculture, renewable energy, manufacturing, and human development. Director General for Asia Oceania at Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Hamid Ashgar, highlighted Africa’s growing importance in global trade and commended Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce for its Look Africa Policy.
Ambassador Dawano Kedir from Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted the strengthened economic cooperation between Ethiopia and Pakistan. He mentioned plans to expand Ethiopian exports to Pakistan and encouraged Pakistani investors to explore opportunities in Ethiopia’s economy.
Ethiopian Ambassador to Pakistan, Jemal Beker, described the event as ‘special and historic,’ underscoring the political and economic partnership between the two nations. He also highlighted Ethiopia’s potential for clean energy cooperation with Pakistan, following the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to expanding investment, trade, and cultural exchanges.