Pakistan on Tuesday called for urgent and comprehensive reforms to bolster economic integration and digital cooperation among Islamic nations, citing profound global challenges that necessitate stronger partnerships to unlock the bloc”s underutilized trade potential.
Addressing the 41st Session of the OIC”s Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation (COMCEC), Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan underscored that intra-OIC trade remains significantly below its capacity due to regulatory hurdles, limited connectivity, and infrastructural gaps.
‘For us in the Islamic world, economic cooperation is not merely about trade-it is about forging stronger bonds of partnership and mutual benefit,’ the minister stated during the session held from November 1-4.
To foster freer movement of goods and services, he proposed reducing non-tariff barriers, streamlining customs procedures, and harmonizing trade regulations, asserting that the ‘OIC Trade Agreement should become a real tool for trade liberalization.’
Khan also urged member states to prioritize digital transformation in e-commerce and fintech and proposed an OIC Green Finance Mechanism to fund climate-resilient projects, emphasizing that economic growth must align with environmental stewardship for future generations.
Delivering a separate joint statement on behalf of the Asia Group, the minister highlighted persistent digital disparities in broadband coverage and cross-border payment systems, cautioning that the “Muslim Ummah must act decisively to ensure that no member state is left behind.”
The group reaffirmed its support for achieving the OIC”s target of a 25 percent intra-OIC trade share by 2025 through the adoption of digital customs, single-window systems, and closer collaboration on regional digital payment platforms.
Meanwhile, in Karachi, Pakistan advanced its regional connectivity goals in separate talks, with Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry seeking to enhance maritime ties with Romania to expand access to European markets.
During a meeting with Romanian Ambassador Dr. Dan Stoenescu, Chaudhry discussed closer cooperation between Karachi Port and Romania’s Port of Constan?a, focusing on logistics integration and trade facilitation.
The minister outlined Pakistan”s ambition to become a major industrial and trade hub, noting the country”s operational ports are expected to increase to six in the coming years to connect the Middle East, Central Asia, Eastern Europe, and Africa.
Ambassador Stoenescu praised the quality of Pakistani exports and confirmed Romania”s interest in importing items such as sports goods, surgical instruments, and agricultural products, reaffirming his country”s commitment to strengthening economic ties.
The discussions also covered capacity-building programs in port operations and digital logistics, with both parties expressing optimism about opening new trade routes and reinforcing Pakistan”s position as a regional maritime center.