KARACHI: Pakistan and Nigeria have agreed to fast-track a bilateral trade agreement and introduce measures to ease visa procedures for investors and tourists from both countries, the Pakistani commerce ministry said on Friday.
The development came during a meeting in Abuja between the Pakistan prime minister’s coordinator on commerce, Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, and Nigerian Foreign Minister Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, wherein they discussed enhancing economic cooperation between the countries.
Pakistan and Nigeria have maintained bilateral relations since establishing diplomatic ties in 1961. Both countries are members of the Commonwealth of Nations and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, sharing common interests at international forums.
During the meeting, Khan and Tuggar expressed “strong political will” to elevate the Nigeria-Pakistan relationship to new heights by exploring opportunities in energy, agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals, information technology and halal trade sectors.
“[The meeting concluded with] agreement to fast-track the finalization and signing of the Nigeria-Pakistan Bilateral Trade Agreement, with technical teams directed to conclude outstanding issues in the shortest possible time,” the Pakistani commerce ministry said in a statement.
