LAHORE: There exists great potential for trade between Iran and the province of Punjab as the latter can expand exports of rice, fruits, vegetables, meat and other items.
Punjab Finance Minister Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman stated this while reviewing chances of enhancing trade between Punjab and Iran with high ranking officials of industries, agriculture, livestock and dairy development, Energy and other sectors at Punjab Business and Investment Trade Board . The provincial minister said that there was wide range of mutual trade between Iran and Punjab which could be increased and expand manifold. He informed that the Punjab could expand its export in rice, fruits, vegetables and meat exports to Iran.
The meeting was attended by high ranking officials of industries, agriculture, livestock and dairy development, Energy and other concerned departments. He said Pakistan and Iran are brotherly countries and having rich cultural heritage and common traditions bilateral relations have become stronger with the passage of time. He said in result of visits of the Punjab Chief Minister, Iranian traders have invested in Punjab and interested for further investment in various sectors.
According to him, the Punjab government is providing maximum facilities to the foreign investors for trade and investment, and an autonomous institution has been set up for the guidance and help of the traders’ community. Iran is our friendly country and they will welcome the Iranian companies to invest in public welfare projects. The leadership of Punjab is well-aware of the latest requirements of the modern era therefore the provincial government has given top priority to attract foreign investment in the province. The concept of public-private partnership has been promoted in the province through good governance and economic co-operation programme. The foreign investment companies like Turkey, China and other friendly countries are investing in Punjab, whereas exchange of students and trade delegations will further expand the trade between friendly countries and Punjab.