PHNOM PENH: The inaugural session of the Pakistan-Cambodia Joint Trade Committee (JTC) marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations, as both nations explored avenues to enhance trade, investment, and cooperation in various sectors. Pakistan’s Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, highlighted Pakistan’s strategic location, growing economy, and investment-friendly policies, inviting Cambodian businesses to explore opportunities in agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and tourism.
According to a statement by Press Information Department, the session was co-chaired by Ms. Nasir Hameed, Additional Secretary of Commerce from Pakistan, and H.E. Pich Rithi, Secretary of State, Ministry of Commerce, Cambodia. Discussions focused on mutual interests, including trade, health, banking, agriculture, aviation, and customs. The Cambodian Minister for Commerce valued the first JTC meeting and expressed interest in visiting Pakistan for the second session in Islamabad, following an invitation from Minister Jam Kamal Khan.
The Cambodian side highlighted its extensive market access within the ASEAN region, encouraging joint ventures to leverage regional opportunities. Both ministers attended the signing ceremony of the agreed minutes of the first JTC meeting, emphasizing the significance of the collaboration. The two sides agreed to appoint focal persons to expedite negotiations for Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and enhance cooperation.
They resolved to share trade-related information, organize trade delegations, and facilitate direct engagements between the business communities of both countries. Cambodian representatives showcased robust market access through free trade agreements and preferential trade treatments, offering opportunities for Pakistani businesses to access regional and global markets.
The agreed minutes of the JTC outlined plans for collaboration in ICT, e-commerce, agriculture, and the health sector. Both countries also expressed interest in MoUs for aviation, banking, and customs cooperation. With bilateral trade currently valued at $45.5 million, both sides acknowledged significant untapped potential and committed to building stronger ties.
The session concluded on a positive note, laying the groundwork for deeper economic and cultural partnerships. The next JTC session will be held in Pakistan, with dates to be decided by mutual consultation.
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