ISTANBUL: Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan arrived in Istanbul on Monday, 2 November, to represent Pakistan at a major economic meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), as member countries discuss ways to strengthen trade and investment ties.
The minister is attending the 42nd session of the Standing Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation (COMCEC), which brings together representatives of OIC member states to address shared economic challenges.
According to Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan was received at Istanbul Airport by Pakistan’s Consul General, Khawaja Khurram Naeem.
The minister is expected to participate in the ministerial sessions and hold bilateral meetings with counterparts from Türkiye, Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
The planned discussions will focus on strengthening trade relations, improving access to international markets and identifying opportunities for economic cooperation.
Trade financing among key priorities
This year’s COMCEC session is focusing on the development of effective trade financing mechanisms to help increase exports among OIC member countries.
The agenda also includes expanding trade between member states, strengthening private-sector participation and improving regional economic cooperation.
Trade financing plays an important role in international commerce by helping businesses manage payments and risks associated with cross-border transactions.
Improved access to such facilities can be particularly relevant for exporters seeking to enter new markets or establish relationships with overseas buyers.
The meeting also provides a platform for governments to discuss obstacles affecting trade and consider measures to improve commercial links.
Pakistan seeks stronger economic partnerships
Pakistan’s participation comes as the government continues efforts to expand its export markets and develop commercial relationships with countries in the Middle East and other regions.
The Ministry of Commerce said the minister’s engagements would explore opportunities for broader cooperation with participating countries.
COMCEC serves as a forum for economic coordination among OIC members, covering areas such as trade, investment, agriculture, transport, tourism and finance.
The 42nd session is taking place in Istanbul from 31 October to 3 November, with ministerial-level discussions scheduled for 2 and 3 November.
Further details of Pakistan’s participation are expected as the discussions progress.
Source: Ministry of Commerce.