ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Ethiopia are exploring private-sector partnerships at a “Made-in-Pakistan” exhibition in Addis Ababa, Pakistan’s commerce ministry said, with both sides aiming to boost trade and investment ties.
The statement was issued on the second day of the 5th Pakistan–Africa Trade Development Conference (PATDC) and Made-in-Pakistan Exhibition in Ethiopia’s capital, which was attended by Pakistani Commerce Minister Jam Kamal and African Union Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf.
Pakistan and Ethiopia have enjoyed friendly relations since 1973, with growing economic and diplomatic ties. Under a bilateral agreement, Pakistan exports health care products, chemicals, machinery, sugar, rice and textiles to Ethiopia, while it imports pulses, red kidney beans, hides, tea and coffee.
Kamal and Youssouf toured the exhibition together and met many Pakistani exhibitors, commending their efforts to promote “South-South cooperation” and foster trade between the two countries.
“The day’s business-to-business (B2B) matchmaking sessions attracted a larger turnout of buyers, importers, and investors from Ethiopia, Pakistan, and other African countries,” the Pakistan commerce ministry said in a statement.
“Discussions centered on manufacturing, agriculture, engineering, pharmaceuticals, and textile industries, leading to new commercial linkages and promising future collaborations.”
Youssouf emphasized that the Pakistan–Africa Trade Development Conference has become an effective model for inter-regional collaboration, aligning with the African Union’s vision to enhance trade integration, industrial partnerships, and inclusive economic growth across the continent.
“Through sustained dialogue and focused initiatives like PATDC, Pakistan is unlocking opportunities for partnership, innovation, and shared growth across Africa,” he was quoted as saying.
“Our objective is to build relationships that go beyond trade — anchored in trust, technology, and long-term development.”
On the occasion, Kamal said the event reflected Pakistan’s proactive global outreach strategy and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to deepening long-term partnerships with Africa.
The conference ended with both sides reaffirming their commitment to deepen trade, investment and institutional cooperation across Africa.
