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Algerian envoy visits RCCI, stresses strengthening bilateral trade ties

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Algerian envoy visits RCCI, stresses strengthening bilateral trade ties

RAWALPINDI, NOV 28 /DNA/ – The Algerian Envoy, Brahim Romani, Ambassador of Algeria to Pakistan, visited the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) and held an interactive session with the business community. Upon arrival, he was warmly received by RCCI President Usman Shaukat, Senior Vice President Khalid Farooq Qazi, Vice President Fahad Barlas, and members of the Executive Committee.

Ambassador Romani urged Pakistani businessmen to take full advantage of the liberal economic policies of Algeria, emphasizing his country’s keen interest in enhancing trade and economic cooperation with Pakistan. He highlighted that Pakistan and Algeria signed a bilateral trade agreement in February 2023, and both countries have witnessed consistent growth in trade over the years.

During the session, President RCCI Usman Shaukat briefed the ambassador on the Chamber’s ongoing initiatives and activities. He said there is vast potential to expand bilateral trade in sectors such as energy, pharmaceuticals, and textiles.

Highlighting the Government of Pakistan’s ‘Look Africa Policy’, the President said that RCCI is actively contributing to this vision. He mentioned that RCCI recently organized an Africa Business Forum, where ambassadors from various African countries, including Algeria, delivered presentations. He added that Africa offers numerous opportunities for Pakistan due to its rich natural resources, promising investment climate, and a large young population. Under the Look Africa Plan, Pakistan is exploring preferential trade agreements with major African trading blocs, he added.

Both sides expressed a strong desire to further enhance trade, investment, and cultural cooperation. The meeting also discussed matters related to bilateral relations, investment opportunities, trade facilitation, cultural and tourism exchange, diplomatic cooperation, and broader economic development.

Ceasefire not holding amid Terror Attacks from Afghanistan soil

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Ceasefire not holding amid Terror Attacks from Afghanistan soil

The spokesperson said the understanding with Afghanistan meant that “there would be no terrorist attack by Afghan-sponsored terrorist proxies into Pakistan.” However, he noted that several major attacks had taken place after this commitment, carried out by TTP, FAK and other Afghan nationals allegedly operating from Afghan soil

Saifullah Ansar

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Thursday clarified that the so-called ceasefire understanding with Afghanistan does not represent a traditional ceasefire between two warring states, but rather an assurance that Afghan-based militant groups would halt cross-border terrorist attacks inside Pakistan.

Responding to a question regarding Afghanistan’s claim of retaliation and whether Pakistan had heightened security, the Foreign Office spokesperson drew a sharp distinction between a military ceasefire and the arrangement Pakistan had expected Kabul to uphold.

The spokesperson said the understanding with Afghanistan meant that “there would be no terrorist attack by Afghan-sponsored terrorist proxies into Pakistan.” However, he noted that several major attacks had taken place after this commitment, carried out by TTP, FAK and other Afghan nationals allegedly operating from Afghan soil.

“Interpreting it in that sense, the ceasefire is not holding,” he stated, adding that the situation must be understood strictly in the context of terrorist infiltration, not conventional warfare.

The spokesperson pointed out that recent attacks inside Pakistan, including in Islamabad, had involved Afghan nationals, raising serious concerns about Taliban-era assurances. He stressed that the responsibility to prevent such incidents lies with the Afghan interim authorities, who must ensure their territory is not used against Pakistan.

Regarding Afghanistan’s statements suggesting retaliation after the strike Kabul attributed to Pakistan, the Foreign Office dismissed the notion of panic or fear, saying Pakistan’s defence apparatus remained vigilant and prepared.

“Our security forces remain fully alert. Our military preparedness is robust,” the spokesperson said. “The security challenges we face would be addressed with the seriousness they merit.”

The exchange comes amid rising tensions between the two neighbours, with Pakistan repeatedly accusing militant groups based in Afghanistan of orchestrating attacks, and Kabul denying involvement.

Portugal Ambassador visits AKDN development projects in Sindh

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Portugal Ambassador visits AKDN development projects in Sindh

ISLAMABAD, NOV 28 /DNA/ – The Ambassador of Portugal to Pakistan, Frederico Silva, during his working visit to Sindh, Karachi and Thatta, from 21 to 26 November 2025, dedicated a special focus on visiting and assessing socio-economic development projects implemented by the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) and the Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) in the provincial capital and across Sindh province. The visit highlighted, once again, the exceptional quality, scale and community impact of AKF’s long-standing work in Pakistan, under the very able guidance of its CEO Mr. Akhtar Iqbal.

The visits also included Aga Khan Education entities (“AK Higher Secondary School”, “Sultan Mahomed Shah AK School” and the “Aga Khan Institute for Educational Development”), evidencing the excellence of its innovative teaching models, training programs and the high quality of their habitat. After meeting the Aga Khan University (AKU) leadership, the Portuguese delegation toured its internationally recognized hospital and discussed opportunities for further academic exchange and collaboration. The Ambassador praised AKU’s reputation for excellence, calling it “one of the most impressive institutions of higher learning and medical care in South Asia.”

A full-day field visit to Thatta District, provided firsthand insight into the AKRSP´s (Aga Khan Rural Support Programme) work in rural and coastal communities. The delegation visited projects supporting sustainable livelihoods, including crab and shrimp ponds in the village of Ahmed Khan Baluch, as well as community-led improvements in sanitation, potable water access and small-scale agriculture in surrounding villages. These initiatives demonstrated AKDN’s renowned ability to deliver high-impact, people-centered development in some of the province’s most underserved areas.

Throughout the visit, the Ambassador commended the Aga Khan Development Network for its remarkable contributions to Pakistan, praising the organization’s “professionalism, vision and deep commitment to improving lives across Sindh, as in other Provinces of the country.”, noting that AKDN’s work in education, health and rural development, amongst many other areas of intervention, “stands as a model of excellence providing high standards of effective, long-term and sustainable investment in empowering communities and citizens”

The Embassy of Portugal looks very much forward to exploring future avenues of cooperation with AKDN, recognizing the Network as a very valuable partner in promoting human development, social progress and inclusive growth in Pakistan.

A New Chapter in Pakistan–Indonesia Cultural Cooperation

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A New Chapter in Pakistan–Indonesia Cultural Cooperation

A dedicated Indonesia Corner was formally inaugurated at the National Library of Pakistan , marking a significant step forward in strengthening cultural and educational ties between Pakistan and Indonesia. The corner was inaugurated by Federal Minister Aurangzeb Khichi, who lauded the initiative as an important platform for promoting mutual understanding between the two brotherly nations.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Khichi said the newly established Indonesia Corner would serve as a source of knowledge for students, researchers, and the general public interested in Indonesia’s history, culture, literature, and societal values. He noted that Pakistan deeply values its longstanding friendship with Indonesia and emphasized the need for further collaboration, particularly in education, culture, and research.

Ambassador of Indonesia to Pakistan highly appreciated the Government of Pakistan and the National Library for supporting the establishment of the corner. He said the initiative reflects the warmth and depth of Pakistan–Indonesia relations. The ambassador expressed confidence that the facility would bring the people of both nations even closer, allowing Pakistanis to better understand Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage, traditions, and modern development experience.

A similar Indonesia Corner already exists at the National Book Foundation, which has been widely appreciated by students and readers. The addition of the second corner at the National Library reflects the continued expansion of cultural diplomacy between the two countries.

President of Indonesia is expected to visit Pakistan next month, a visit that both sides believe will further cement bilateral ties. The upcoming presidential visit holds special importance as it comes at a time when Pakistan and Indonesia are looking to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, education, tourism and people-to-people exchanges.

Despite strong political and cultural bonds bilateral trade still remains below its true potential. Pakistan primarily imports palm oil and raw materials from Indonesia, while its own exports remain limited. It is hope that the presidential visit will help identify solutions to existing bottlenecks and pave the way for a more balanced, expanded, and mutually beneficial trade relationship.

Both countries share deep civilizational and religious commonalities as two major Muslim nations in Asia. Pakistan and Indonesia frequently support each other at international forums and hold similar views on key global issues, including peace, development, and cooperation among Muslim-majority nations. These shared values provide a strong foundation for building an even more dynamic partnership.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by diplomats, scholars, students, writers, and members of the literary community. Visitors appreciated the inclusion of Indonesian books, cultural artifacts, photographs, and multimedia resources, which highlight Indonesia’s cultural diversity and modern achievements.

The Indonesia Corner at the National Library is expected to host cultural events, language courses, academic discussions, and exhibitions in the coming months. Officials said the corner would play a vital role in deepening cultural diplomacy, fostering academic collaboration, and showcasing Indonesia’s vibrant identity to Pakistanis.

With the much-anticipated visit of the Indonesian President next month, both sides hope that this cultural initiative will serve as a symbol of friendship and a stepping stone toward greater cooperation in all fields.

Rina Saeed Khan Hires Top Lawyer as FIA Probe Intensifies

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Rina Saeed Khan Hires Top Lawyer as FIA Probe Intensifies

ISLAMABAD, NOV 28 /DNA/ – So-called climate activist Rina Saeed Khan, widely known for her role in the Supreme Court case that led to the closure of Islamabad’s iconic Monal Restaurant, has hired one of the country’s top legal minds to defend herself in an ongoing FIA investigation.

According to official documents, Khan has submitted a power of attorney authorizing Barrister Salman Safdar, Advocate Supreme Court of Pakistan, to represent her in all legal proceedings related to the inquiry. The document grants the counsel full authority to appear, plead, file applications, receive records, and pursue all necessary legal remedies.

Sources familiar with the matter say Khan’s decision to hire a high-priced, top-tier lawyer has raised eyebrows in various quarters. Critics allege that her move reflects concerns that the FIA inquiry could lead to serious legal challenges. Some officials claim that Khan may be attempting to “shield herself from possible financial misconduct findings”—allegations she has consistently rejected.

According to individuals close to the FIA investigation, the probe revolves around claims of financial irregularities during her association with wildlife-related projects. Some insiders allege that donor-funded initiatives suffered major setbacks due to mismanagement and improper financial transfers. These accusations are currently under review by investigators.

Rina Saeed Khan figures during environmental petitions before the Supreme Court that contributed to the decision to shut down Monal Restaurant, once considered a major cultural and tourism landmark of the capital.

While environmental groups hailed the ruling as a win for conservation of the Margalla Hills National Park, large segments of the public, business community, and civic groups strongly opposed the closure. Many accused environmental activists — including Khan — of exercising undue influence and using personal connections to secure the verdict. The decision, delivered during the tenure of then–Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa, sparked intense debate about the balance between environmental protection and tourism development.

It may be added that several other commercial establishments also operate in the area commonly referred to as the National Park Zone. However, only Monal and La Montana were proceeded against. During the Supreme Court hearings, this point was also mentioned, with some stakeholders questioning why action was limited to selected properties while others remained untouched. Therefore, targeting Monal and La Montana allegedly indicates personal grudge on the part of Rina Khan and her like-minded friends.

“Indonesian Corner” opened at National Library of Pakistan

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Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khichi, in his remarks appreciated the Government of Indonesia and the National Library of Indonesia for establishing the Indonesian Corner

ISLAMABAD, NOV 27 /DNA/: As part of the celebrations marking 75 years of Indonesia–Pakistan diplomatic relations, the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Pakistan inaugurated a dedicated Indonesian Corner at the National Library of Pakistan (NLP) in Islamabad on Wednesday.

The event was attended by diplomats, government officials, academics, students, and members of the cultural and literary community.

Located on the 2nd floor of the National Library, the Indonesian Corner is designed to promote Indonesian culture, language, literature, and educational resources. The collection includes books, cultural materials, and multimedia resources curated to provide Pakistani readers, scholars and students deeper insight into Indonesia’s history, society, and traditions.

Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture Aurangzeb Khichi, in his remarks, invited other ASEAN missions in Pakistan to utilize the National Library’s space for setting up their own cultural corners. He appreciated the Government of Indonesia and the National Library of Indonesia for establishing the Indonesian Corner, noting that it would “quench the literary thirst of book lovers, especially those eager to learn more about Indonesia, its culture, and its people.

Speaking at the ceremony, Indonesian Ambassador H.E. Chandra Warsenanto Sukotjo highlighted that cultural diplomacy remains a key pillar of Indonesia–Pakistan ties. He said the Indonesian Corner would serve as a cultural and educational bridge between the two nations, fostering cooperation in education, research, arts, and people-to-people exchanges. He also welcomed the signing of an MoU between the national libraries of both countries, calling it an encouraging step toward deeper collaboration.

Dr. Joko Santoso, Secretary of the National Library of Indonesia, who travelled from Jakarta to attend the inauguration, announced that Indonesia would donate around 1,000 books to enrich the Indonesian Corner at the NLP.

Dr. Santoso emphasized Indonesia’s national commitment to ensuring public access to knowledge. He outlined the vast and diverse collections of the National Library of Indonesia—one of the richest in Southeast Asia—including Nusantara manuscripts, palm-leaf and bamboo texts, rare books, colonial-era prints, and modern academic and literary works. He also highlighted the library’s mandate to provide safe, inclusive, and standardized information services, supported by nationwide programs such as mobile libraries, motorcycle-based outreach services, and book donations to village libraries across all 38 provinces.

Drawing parallels between Indonesia and Pakistan, Dr. Santoso noted that both nations share common goals in literacy promotion, cultural preservation, and strengthening public knowledge. “This agreement is not merely an administrative document—it is a commitment to learn from each other, exchange experiences, and support one another in advancing the role of libraries in national development,” he said.

He expressed deep appreciation to the National Library of Pakistan, the Government of Pakistan, and the Indonesian Embassy in Islamabad for their support. “As we commemorate 75 years of Indonesia–Pakistan friendship, may this partnership grow stronger,” he said. “Knowledge is a bridge—and today, we strengthen that bridge together.”

The Director General of the National Library praised the initiative, stating that the Indonesian Corner would significantly enhance the library’s international resources and promote academic and cultural cooperation between the two countries.

The ceremony concluded with a guided tour of the newly established corner, followed by interactions between Indonesian diplomats, library officials, and invited guests.

This initiative builds upon the earlier establishment of a similar Indonesian Corner at the National Book Foundation (NBF), further expanding Indonesia’s cultural presence in Pakistan. With two major cultural spaces now operational in Islamabad, Indonesia continues to deepen its engagement with Pakistani readers, researchers, and cultural institutions.

Rebirth of the Liberated Lands: Guided by Vision

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Ansar Mahmood Bhatti

The Great Return represents one of the most historic and transformative national endeavors in Azerbaijan’s modern era, marking the large-scale resettlement of citizens to the territories liberated following the 2020 Patriotic War. After nearly three decades of displacement, Azerbaijanis are finally returning to their ancestral homes in Karabakh and Eastern Zangezur, beginning a new stage of national revival.

At the core of this process are the undeniable and decisive efforts of Ilham Aliyev, the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, whose leadership has been instrumental in shaping the vision, pace, and direction of the Great Return. President Aliyev personally oversees the reconstruction agenda, conducts regular visits to the liberated regions, and ensures that each stage of planning—from mine clearance and infrastructure development to the restoration of cultural heritage—is implemented with precision and long-term sustainability in mind. His commitment has ensured that the liberated lands are rebuilt not only as livable spaces but as exemplary models of modern urban development.

Under President Aliyev’s guidance, Azerbaijan has launched some of the most ambitious reconstruction projects in its history. Entire cities and villages are being rebuilt based on “smart city” and “smart village” concepts, integrating green technologies, digital governance, and high standards of urban planning. Aghali village in Zangilan, one of the first smart settlements, stands as a clear demonstration of the President’s vision—where families have already returned to modern homes with access to advanced public services and new economic opportunities.

Ensuring the safety of returnees has been another key priority. Under the direct instruction of President Aliyev, extensive demining operations have been accelerated, mobilizing national institutions and international partners to clear vast areas contaminated during the years of occupation. This effort has created safe conditions for reconstruction and the gradual return of residents.

Cultural and historical restoration also occupies a central place in the President’s agenda. Under his leadership, Azerbaijan has undertaken the rehabilitation of religious monuments, cultural sites, museums, cemeteries, and historical landmarks that suffered destruction or neglect. These projects serve not only to preserve national heritage but also to reestablish the cultural identity of the region.

The Great Return is, therefore, much more than a resettlement program—it is a comprehensive national revival shaped by strategic leadership, strong political will, and a clear vision for the future.

Sherry Rehman voices grave concern over escalating gender-based violence and alarming conviction rates

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ISLAMABAD, Nov 27 (DNA): Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Vice President and Senator Sherry Rehman has expressed profound alarm over the sharp rise in gender-based violence (GBV) across Pakistan during 2024. She described the situation as a severe indictment of the country’s justice system.

Senator Rehman disclosed that 32,617 cases of gender-based violence were reported nationwide in 2024. These included:

5,339 rape cases,24,439 abductions,2,238 domestic violence incidents

,547 honour killings.

Addressing a session of the Senate Standing Committee on Human Rights, she emphasized that the conviction rates across these categories are “shockingly low,” noting that the conviction rate for rape and honour killings is merely 0.5 percent, which she said “reflects the collapse of the justice system.” Convictions in abduction cases stood at 0.1 percent, while domestic violence cases saw a conviction rate of just 1.3 percent.

According to the averages cited, Pakistan is witnessing 67 abductions, 19 rapes, 6 domestic violence cases, and 2 honour killings every day.

Provincial and Regional Overview

Senator Rehman reported 26,753 cases of gender-based violence in Punjab. Of the 225 honour killings, only two convictions were recorded. Among 4,641 rape cases, the conviction rate was 0.4 percent, while only 16 convictions were secured out of 20,720 abduction cases.

The province recorded 3,397 GBV cases, including 134 honour killings, with only two convictions. Out of 258 rape cases, there was one conviction, and 943 abduction cases similarly resulted in just one conviction. Notably, no convictions were recorded in 446 domestic violence cases.

Sindh reported 1,781 cases of gender-based violence. Senator Rehman stressed that not a single conviction was achieved in 134 honour killings, 243 rape cases, or 375 domestic violence cases, said a press release issued here on Thursday.

Balochistan recorded 398 cases, including 32 honour killings, of which only one resulted in a conviction. No convictions were secured in 21 rape or 185 abduction cases, while 25 convictions were recorded in 160 domestic violence cases.

Islamabad documented 220 cases, including 22 honour killings, with no convictions. Among 176 rape cases, seven convictions were secured, while all 22 domestic violence cases resulted in zero convictions.

Judicial Backlog and Systemic Breakdown

Senator Rehman further highlighted that despite the establishment of 480 Gender-Based Violence (GBV) courts, Pakistan entered 2023 with 21,891 pending cases. During the year, 48,395 new cases were filed and 30,631 were disposed of, raising the backlog to 39,655 cases.

She stated that the overall conviction rate stands at 0.5 percent, whereas 64 percent of accused persons are acquitted, calling this disparity “clear evidence of systemic failure.”

Citing Human Rights Watch, Senator Rehman said that 70 percent of gender-based violence cases go unreported due to fear, threats, and societal stigma.

She criticized lapses in law enforcement and prosecution, asserting that poor investigation standards, weak prosecution, and institutional voids are “giving perpetrators a free pass.”

“We visited a police station where a murder suspect was being garlanded,” she said, describing it as emblematic of the institutional decay.

She added that despite ongoing legislation on the issue since 2004, victims continued to be denied justice.

Dominican Republic grants US access to restricted areas for its deadly fight against drugs

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SAN JUAN, NOV 27 /DNA/: Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader announced Wednesday that he has authorized the US government to operate inside restricted areas in the Caribbean country to help in its fight against drug trafficking.

For a limited time, the US can refuel aircraft and transport equipment and technical personnel at restricted areas within the San Isidro Air Base and Las Américas International Airport, said Abinader, who made the announcement with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at his side.

Hegseth was in Santo Domingo Wednesday to meet with the country’s top leaders, including Abinader and Minister of Defense Lt. Gen. Carlos Antonio Fernández Onofre.

It is the first major public agreement that the US has struck with a Caribbean nation as it seeks friendly allies to support its attacks against alleged drug-smuggling boats in the region and beyond. Since the strikes began in early September, at least 83 people have been killed.

Hegseth said the Dominican Republic was a regional leader willing to take on hard challenges.

“That’s why I’m here today. That’s why we decided to come here first,” he said. “The Dominican Republic has stepped up.”

Hegseth said the US would respect the Caribbean country’s sovereignty and laws as US service members and aircraft prepare to deploy to the Dominican Republic. He did not provide additional details.

Meanwhile, Abinader said the scope of the agreement is “technical, limited, and temporary.”

“The purpose is clear: to strengthen the air and maritime protection ring maintained by our Armed Forces, a decisive reinforcement to prevent the entry of narcotics and to strike a more decisive blow against transnational organized crime,” he said.

After a news conference where no questions were allowed, the office of the president issued a statement with more details, noting that several KC-135 tanker aircraft would be present to support air patrol missions, expanding monitoring and interdiction capabilities over a large portion of the maritime and air domains.

“They would also provide refueling services to aircraft from partner countries, thus ensuring sustained operations for monitoring, detecting, and tracking verified illicit smuggling activities,” according to the statement.

Additionally, C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft would facilitate aeromedical evacuations, firefighting, weather reconnaissance, and disaster relief, the office said.

Abinader noted that the Dominican Republic has seized nearly 10 times more drugs per year in the past five years than in the previous decade thanks to close collaboration with the US

“Our country faces a real threat, a threat that knows no borders, no flags, that destroys families, and that has been trying to use our territory for decades,” he said. “That threat is drug trafficking, and no country can or should confront it without allies.”

Hegseth praised Abinader, saying that the Dominican Republic “understands the importance of standing up to narco-terrorists and narco-traffickers who flood our countries with drugs and violence.”

“We’re deadly serious about this mission,” Hegseth said, asserting that the US has the best intelligence, lawyers and process. “We know…where they’re leaving from, where they’re going, what they’re bringing, what their intentions are, who they represent.”

Some experts believe the ongoing strikes are a tactic to try and pressure Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to step down given that the US military has built up its largest presence in the region in generations.

Hegseth’s visit comes a day after Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and US President Donald Trump’s primary military adviser, met with Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar.

The prime minister has praised the strikes, drawing criticism ever since stating in early September that she had no sympathy for drug traffickers and that “the US military should kill them all violently.”

On Wednesday, Persad-Bissessar told reporters that US marines were recently in the twin-island nation to do some work at an airport roadway and to train with local soldiers.

“They are not here on the ground,” she said. “We are not about to launch any campaign against Venezuela.”

She said that Trinidad has not been asked to be a base for any attack against Venezuela, and that Venezuela was not mentioned in conversations with the US on Tuesday.

Trinidad and Tobago is just a few miles away from Venezuela.

Prior to visiting Trinidad and Tobago, Caine stopped by the US territory of Puerto Rico to visit American troops there and boarded at least one US Navy ship.

Caine and Hegseth had previously traveled to Puerto Rico in September.

Earlier this year, the US approached the tiny Caribbean island of Grenada with a request.

Grenadian Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell told Parliament earlier this month that any decision possibly allowing the Trump administration to install a temporary radar at the island’s international airport “will not be a secret, nor will it be one that violates domestic or international laws.”

No public announcement has been made since then.

Rana Ihsaan Afzal Leads Key Trade Mission in Lagos

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LAGOS, NIGERIA: NOV 27 /DNA/: Pakistan strengthened its commercial and investment engagement with Nigeria and the wider West African region on Tuesday, as the Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Commerce, Mr. Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, led a series of high-level trade and investment activities in Lagos.

The day featured strategic meetings with Nigerian authorities, the inauguration of Pakistan’s Pavilion at Beauty West Africa (BWA) 2025, and a networking dinner bringing together Pakistani exhibitors and key Nigerian industry stakeholders.

Earlier in the day, Mr. Khan held a bilateral meeting with Ms. Aisha Rimi, Executive Secretary/CEO of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC).

The discussion focused on Nigeria’s investment landscape and the potential for enhanced Pakistani participation in sectors such as manufacturing, agro-processing, IT services, and logistics. Both sides also explored strengthening institutional cooperation between NIPC and Pakistan’s Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) to improve information-sharing, streamline procedures, and facilitate investor outreach.

The two officials agreed to maintain momentum through continued dialogue and collaboration.

Rana Ihsaan later inaugurated the Pakistan Pavilion at Beauty West Africa (BWA) 2025, the continent’s largest beauty and cosmetics exhibition, held from 25–27 November at the Landmark Center. A strong contingent of 23 Pakistani cosmetics manufacturers—19 sponsored by TDAP and 4 self-financed—showcased a diverse range of products at the event, which features over 350 exhibitors and attracts more than 6,000 buyers annually.

Pakistan’s presence comes at a time when Africa’s beauty and personal care market is projected to reach USD 69.53 billion in 2025, driven by rising urbanisation, youth demographics, and shifting consumer preferences toward natural and eco-friendly products. Nigeria’s rapidly expanding e-commerce market, expected to generate USD 439.77 million in 2025 in online beauty sales, also presents growing opportunities for cross-border trade.

In the evening, the Prime Minister’s Coordinator attended a networking dinner hosted by the Commercial Section of the High Commission of Pakistan at the Radisson Blu Anchorage, Victoria Island.

Pakistani exhibitors were joined by leading Nigerian buyers, senior bankers, a top customs-clearing agent, representatives from NAFDAC, and the Chairman of the Cosmetics and Drugs Chapter of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN).

Nigerian stakeholders briefed the visiting companies on regulatory requirements for importing cosmetics, product registration processes, compliance standards, and banking procedures—providing Pakistani businesses with valuable insights into the local market’s operational landscape.

Mr. Khan appreciated the active engagement of both sides and encouraged Pakistani companies to deepen their commercial presence in West Africa.

The day’s engagements underscored Pakistan’s growing commitment to expanding trade, investment, and business partnerships with Nigeria, positioning Pakistani enterprises to take advantage of emerging opportunities across one of Africa’s most dynamic markets.

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