ISLAMABAD: A high level delegation led by the Chief Advisor on Infrastructure and Technology to he President of Afghanistan Dr Humayun Qayumi called on the Deputy Chairman Planning Commission of Pakistan Sartaj Aziz. The two sides discussed avenues of economic cooperation, trade, energy and connectivity.
Extending a warm and cordial welcome to the delegation, Sartaj Aziz maintained that the people of Afghanistan have suffered for many years and they deserve rapid improvement in economic and social sectors. Improved regional connectivity can assist supporting growth and development. He further stated that Pakistan was ready to play a meaningful role in terms of extended cooperation in multi-sectoral avenues. Sartaj Aziz emphasised that connectivity is a key to expanding mutual trade and enhancing bilateral ties.
In this regard, both countries should focus on building road and railway linkages which would ultimately enable both sides to utilise the massive export potential that both countries possess. Pakistan, with the inception of CPEC and a boost in economic investment, can cater to the needs of Afghanistan and help generate business activities for its neighbour, Afghanistan.
Both the sides agreed to hold meetings of the sub-working groups on a regular basis in order to fast-track the economic and development initiatives. Furthermore, the sub-working groups would identify issues and prepare an agenda for the upcoming meeting of the Economic Cooperation Group to be held in September 2018.
