Pakistan is keen on expanding its trade relations with two key Arab republics of Tunisia and Algeria by enhancing its exports of textiles, agriculture products, surgical instruments and sports and leather goods. Ambassador of Tunisia Mourad Bourehla discussed the utility of existing trade potential between Pakistan and Tunisia during a meeting with Commerce Minister Makhdoom Amin Fahim. Tunisian Ambassador showed great interest in Pakistan’s exportable products like surgical instruments, agricultural products and sports and leather goods. He informed that trade between Tunisia and Pakistan is highly favourable for both countries and it will reduce Tunisian dependence on European Union.
He said Tunisia is in the phase of expanding its trade beyond European Union and Tunisian government is very keen in boosting trade with Pakistan. The meeting also discussed the importance of Pak–Tunisia Preferential Trade Agreement which is currently in the process of completion. The meeting decided to expedite the completion of PTA in order to boost trading partnership between two countries.
The meeting was informed that the existing trade volume is far below their potential and there is a wide scope of cooperation in textile, science and technology, telecommunication and health. Pakistan’s exports to Tunisia stood at $25 million and imports at $64.5 million in 2010-2011. Ambassador of Algeria Dr Ahmed Benflis also met with the Commerce Minister. During the meeting various dimensions of promoting trade between Algeria and Pakistan were discussed. Algeria is great potential market for Pakistani products especially textile and textile products. The meeting decided to pursue holding of second session of Pak-Algeria Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC), so that signing of Pak- Algeria trade agreement may take place.