ISLAMABAD – The Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to Pakistan, Emin Cohodarevic, announced on Monday that the Bosnian president, along with a business delegation, would be visiting Pakistan this year. The purpose of the visit is to strengthen bilateral trade and economic ties between the two countries.
During his visit to the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), the ambassador highlighted the significance that the Bosnian president places on Pakistan, Turkiye, and Azerbaijan. He commended these countries for maintaining open doors for Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Ambassador Cohodarevic informed the business community that Bosnia and Herzegovina would be hosting the Sarajevo Business Forum from May 21-23, 2024. He extended an invitation to the representatives of the Government of Pakistan to participate in the event.
To facilitate the exchange of ideas, networking, and exploring business opportunities, the ambassador suggested that the ICCI should establish a high-level business delegation to attend the forum.
The ambassador emphasized the benefits of a close relationship between Pakistan and Bosnia. Bosnia has already signed a Free Trade Agreement with the European Free Trade Association and is pursuing membership in the European Union. Therefore, fostering stronger ties with Pakistan will provide easier market access to these countries.
One of the key advantages highlighted by the ambassador was that Pakistanis holding US, EU, or Shenzhen visas can visit Bosnia without requiring an additional visa.
Ambassador Cohodarevic assured his commitment to enhancing bilateral trade and economic cooperation between Bosnia and Pakistan. He emphasized the potential for collaboration in various sectors, such as economics, culture, science, and education.
Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President of the ICCI, acknowledged the friendly relations between Pakistan and Bosnia and stressed the need to translate these ties into growing business connections. He identified several sectors with the potential for collaboration, including agriculture, textiles, automotive parts, hydropower, and mines and minerals. Bakhtawari also encouraged regular exchanges of business delegations to transform potential opportunities into tangible results.
Rizwana Asif, President of the Islamabad Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized the importance of promoting connectivity between women entrepreneurs in Pakistan and Bosnia, citing their great potential.
In summary, the planned visit of Bosnia’s president and business delegation to Pakistan signifies the countries’ commitment to building stronger trade and economic relations. The visit, along with the invitation to the Sarajevo Business Forum, presents opportunities for both countries to engage in meaningful exchanges and cooperation across various sectors. The ambassadors and business leaders of Pakistan and Bosnia expressed optimism for the future collaboration and emphasized the significant potential for mutual benefit.
