SIALKOT
A delegation led by Russian Trade Commissioner Mr Yury M Kozlov visited Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and discussed the prospects of doing business and matters of mutual interest with the SCCI incumbents.
SCCI President Dr Sarfraz Bashir told newsmen that the Russian trade commissioner was finding out opportunities available in Russia, particularly for the traders, investors and tourists. The team head also pledged to make an all-out effort to remove bottlenecks from the smooth way to promotion of bilateral trade ties. He said that as the Russia was very keen to enhance the trade and business ties with Pakistan.
The commissioner agreed to an SCCI proposal regarding the regular exchange of updated trade information and trade delegations to enhance trade between the two countries.
On the occasion, the SCCI president told the visiting Russian delegates that the Sialkot exporters had great potential to explore and capture the international trade markets of Russia by exporting their world-class traditional and non-traditional export products.
For improving bilateral trade, he suggested that exchange of trade delegations and one-to-one meetings of businessmen of both the sides be arranged. It would require both the sides to ensure simple visa process to enable the businessmen to meet each other. “Sialkot has historical background and strong industrial base. It is one of the most important economic centres, recognized as the only export-oriented city of the country. With gradual growth of exports, the industrialists have decided to set up a platform for facilitation in business activities and other relating matters,” he added.
Later, Mr Yury visited several leading industrial units in Sialkot amid tight security. The delegates also witnessed the international standard craftsmanship of artisans and highly hailed the unique export culture of Sialkot. During his visit to local leading industrial units, the trade commissioner vowed to make efforts to boost mutual trade ties between Pakistan and Russia. He said that the time was ripe to further strengthen mutual trade ties. He said that both the countries were enjoying cordial trade relations.
SCCI Senior Vice President Muhammad Anwar said that there were bright opportunities of setting up joint ventures between Pakistan and Russia especially in Sialkot in different trade fields.