PAK OPPOSITION LEADER STRESSES FOR MORE TRADE, BUSINESS LINKS BETWEEN PAKISTAN & SOUTH AFRICA

SENATE SECRETARIAT

       Islamabad, 24th April, 2012
Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, Leader of Opposition in the Senate has emphasized the need to enhance trade, investment and business ties between Pakistan and South Africa as there is huge potential for growth in these fields. He was talking to Col. Imran Hyder, Political Counselor, South African High Commission who called on him at Parliament House today.

Welcoming the Political Counselor of the South African High Commission, Senator Dar said that Pakistan highly values its bilateral relations with South Africa. He further said that there was a dire need to encourage people to people contacts besides frequent exchange of visits at Parliamentary and other levels to generate more understanding and learn from each others’ experience in different fields.

Leader of Opposition in the Senate observed that the cordial relationship between the two countries needs to be raised to its true potential for benefit and welfare of the people. He, however, expressed the hope that both the sides would work closely to achieve this goal.  Senator Dar further hoped that South Africa would post a permanent High Commissioner in Pakistan in the near future.

Mr. Imran Hyder agreed with the views of Senator Ishaq Dar. He said that there was a huge scope for enhancing cooperation in textile, steel, agriculture, defence and other areas, saying that concrete steps were required to boost bilateral collaboration in trade and commerce.

He informed the Leader of the Opposition   about the active role played by Pakistani Diaspora in the socio-economic uplift of South Africa. He further said that Pakistan and South Africa were non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and has similarity of views on various global issues.

Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar conveyed his best wishes to the Government and People of South Africa. He also expressed his gratitude to the South African National Hero and former President Mr. Nelson Mendela and eulogized his services.
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