The delegation was led by Ismail Suttar, Member Board of Directors of EFP and Chairman of the EFP Economic Council. The delegation visited the concerned organizations, such as Philippines Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Board of Investment, Food and Drug Administration office, business houses, custom authorities, etc. There was a free and frank discussion to sort issues, including reservations and queries regarding bilateral trade.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the EFP and the PCCI at the PCCI headquarters in Taguig City, Philippines. This agreement entailS that both the organizations to collaborate, cooperate and work collectively to enhance the business activities and efficiency to encourage bilateral trade and investment.
The MoU was signed by Ismail Suttar on behalf of EFP and by Renato Simbulan, Director and Chairman International Affairs of PCCI. The ceremony was attended by President of the Pakistan Philippines Business Forum, Mehmood Arshad, Chairman of the Philippines Pakistan Business Council, Muhammad Aslam, the Consul General of Philippines in Karachi, Dr Imran Y Muhammad, the Ambassador of Pakistan in Philippines, Dr Aman Rashid, the Director and Chairman of International Affairs at PCCI, the Chairman Emeritus and Director of International Affairs PCCI Dr Francis Chua, and Vice Chair for Asia/ASEAN at PCCI, Roberto C. Amores.
Speaking on the occasion, Ismail Suttar highlighted the imperative need for enhancing bilateral trade not only with Philippines but with all ASEAN countries. He advocated streamlining the trade regime and offered the services of EFP in all trade and investment matters.
He also appreciated the efforts of the diplomats of both countries who are giving importance to economic diplomacy and facilitating travel requirements of businessmen. Simbulan expressed the same sentiments and stated that the Philippines business community are very eager to enhance trade and invited Pakistani businessmen to also invest in his country.-PR