There exists massive potential for the export of textile products, cement and rice to Libya. However, this potential remains unrealized as of now, but must be explored in view of the changed political setup in Libya. This was conveyed to Syed Ayaz Hussain, Pakistan’s Ambassador-Designate to Libya (who will be taking up office shortly in Tripoli) by the business community during a visit to the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) Head Office on Monday, February 20, 2012.
Mr. Hussain was welcomed at the Federation House by Mr. Dawood Usman Jakhura, Vice President-FPCCI and Syed Masood Alam Rizvi, Secretary General-FPCCI. In his welcome remarks, Mr. Jakhura pointed out that Libya’s economy had tremendous potential for various products, including textiles, cement and rice, which was presently being met by Tunisia, Algeria and Egypt. However, Pakistan possessed a comparative advantage in textiles over these countries, which could be developed further through the exchange of delegations and participation in exhibitions. In particular, the Tripoli Fair is a great event in the Maghreb region that Pakistan has traditionally participated in over the years. He stressed the need to maintain this participation and make it more effective. He also identified opportunities for unskilled Pakistani manpower in Libya.
Mr. Hussain mentioned that the situation in Libya was still very fluid as of now, following the political unrest last year. However, he mentioned that elections were expected in June 2012, after which there would hopefully be greater stability. While stressing the importance of having permanent commercial staff at the Pakistani Embassy in Tripoli, he said that he has requested the Government of Pakistan to fill up the vacant post of Commercial Officer which is lying vacant since the last several months. He urged FPCCI also to take up the matter with the Ministry of Commerce as re-opening this Department was essential for furthering Pakistan’s trade interests in Libya. While Libya was not a large market, he agreed with the business community that our trade was presently insufficient, and attempts should be made to further increase the volume of trade. The meeting concluded with presentation of the FPCCI crest to Mr. Hussian.
(Source: Pakistan Observer)
