Pakistan Could Get New Trade Routes to Turkey and Europe

Pakistan and Qatar have been exploring the possibility of new trade routes that could connect the two nations with Turkey and European markets through the Middle East and Central Asia, potentially opening up new opportunities for transit and bilateral trade. This discussion took place during a meeting between Pakistan's Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and Qatar's Minister of State for Foreign Trade Ahmad bin Mohammad Al Sayed, which occurred outside the Belt and Road Summit.

The two sides also addressed regional developments, connectivity, and economic cooperation during their meeting. Jam Kamal praised Qatar's efforts to foster peace and stability in the region, while the Qatari minister recognized Pakistan's contribution to regional peace. Both parties discussed how the Belt and Road Initiative and improved regional connectivity could facilitate new trade routes through the Middle East and Central Asia, with potential links from Pakistan and Qatar extending toward Turkey and eventually reaching Europe.

The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to boosting bilateral trade and exploring new avenues for economic cooperation. In a separate meeting, Jam Kamal Khan discussed strengthening trade and economic ties with Sri Lanka's Trade Minister Wasantha Samarasinghe, focusing on leveraging Pakistan's Free Trade Agreement with Sri Lanka.

They also talked about connectivity, infrastructure, food security, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. Sri Lanka expressed gratitude for Pakistan's support in expanding market access for its kinnow exports, while Pakistan appreciated Sri Lanka's cooperation regarding access to markets for pineapples, avocados, and king coconut.

Jam Kamal also met Bangladesh's Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir, and both countries agreed to bolster economic cooperation and explore avenues for diversifying bilateral trade, with rice exports and textiles identified as potential areas for growth. Additionally, Jam Kamal met with the Secretary-General of the International Organization for Mediation, Teresa Chan, to discuss the organization's role in resolving disputes between governments and private organizations, and Pakistan's role as a founding and contracting member.