Italy eager to strengthen economic ties: Ambassador Andreas Ferrarese

Islamabad: Pakistan and Italy have chosen to strengthen economic ties and reinforce cooperation in diverse fields, besides deepening mutual collaboration on issues of common interest.

A decision in that connection was taken during a meeting between Italian Ambassador Andreas Ferrarese and All Pakistan Business Forum (APBF) President Syed Maaz Mahmood.

The Ambassador called for strengthening Italy-Pakistan partnership and stressed that Italy would always support Pakistan’s stability and economic development.

He observed that Pakistan and Italy could boost bilateral trade from current levels as tremendous potential existed to raise volumes.

Ambassador Ferrarese stated that business communities of both countries were fully aware of the importance and vast potential of trade. “Some key areas of cooperation have already been identified along with agreements to nurture economic ties for mutual benefit.”

APBF Secretary General Khurram Niaz spoke about the current status of trade under the “Italy-Pakistan Trade and Economic Window”, which was designed to ramp up bilateral ties.

A business delegation was also finalised in the meeting for a trip to Italy to explore new opportunities and enhance trade. APBF President Syed Maaz Mahmood, while underlining the longstanding cooperation between Pakistan and Italy, expressed Pakistan’s desire to deepen and broaden ties in the areas of trade, investment and economy.

“APBF wants to diversify Pakistan’s exports and find new partners for doing business. I believe that Pakistan really has a lot of potential to promote itself and Italy is a country that provides excellent business opportunities,” he stated.

Mahmood appreciated Italy for helping Pakistan in tourism management to give a boost to the tourism and hospitality industry. “Pakistan attaches great importance to sustainable tourism in both countries.”