Strengthening Bilateral Relations: Pakistan and Tanzania discuss Future Cooperation

ISLAMABAD, Jan 17 (EPI): Meeting of the Pakistan-Tanzania Friendship group was held today under the convenor-ship of Senator Jan Muhammad. The discussions highlighted the two countries’ ongoing commitment to strengthening ties in various sectors, including politics, trade, investment, energy, security, and cultural exchanges.

It was remarked that Pakistan has long considered its relationship with Tanzania a cornerstone of its broader African foreign policy. Since establishing its High Commission in Tanzania in 1967, Pakistan has recognized Tanzania’s strategic importance as a significant partner in the region. With a land area nearly 30% larger than Pakistan and a population one-third its size, Tanzania presents vast potential for collaboration.

The discussion observed that while trade between the two nations has grown, the current volume—US$301 million in 2022-23— and there is significant room to expand bilateral trade, particularly through business delegations and trade fairs.

Pakistan’s exports to Tanzania include cement, textiles, rice, sugar, and machinery spare parts, while imports from Tanzania consist mainly of tea, raw cotton, tobacco, edible oils, and tanning materials.Tanzania’s vast agricultural potential offers significant opportunities for trade and investment.

Both the nations believed that tourism sector also presents a promising opportunity for people-to-people exchanges. Joint cultural events, including music, food festivals, and literature celebrations, will further enrich the cultural ties between Pakistan and Tanzania.

The two countries are also exploring a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) to enhance market access and promote trade, particularly in agricultural products. Additionally, collaboration in clean energy, sustainable agriculture, and green technologies is a priority.

Both the dignitaries maintained that the relationship between Pakistan and Tanzania has been marked by consistent diplomatic exchanges and mutual understanding. A landmark event was the inaugural session of the Pakistan-Tanzania Bilateral Political Consultations, held in Dar es Salaam on March 12, 2024.

The consultations covered a wide range of topics, including political cooperation, trade and investment, defense, education, and cultural exchanges. Both countries agreed on the need for regular high-level exchanges to advance mutual interests, with future sessions to be hosted in Pakistan.

Both Pakistan and Tanzania recognize the untapped potential in their economic and cultural relations. Moving forward, strengthening parliamentary relations is essential to establish a foundation for long-term strategic partnerships.

Regular engagements between Parliamentary Friendship Groups in both countries are vital to address global challenges such as climate change, terrorism, security, and sustainable development.

The meeting was attended by Senator Jan Muhammad, Senator Sardar Al Haj M. Umar Gorgaij, and Secretary of the Friendship Group, Ms. Misbah Khar.

Ends-Exact Press International-