The session was chaired by Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President FPCCI, President ECO-CCI, and Vice President CACCI. The event aimed to explore opportunities for enhancing regional economic cooperation, boosting bilateral trade, and fostering connectivity between Pakistan and ASEAN member states.
The seminar was graced by the presence of Federal Minister for National Food Security & Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, Federal Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, and the Ambassadors of Brunei, Malaysia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam. Their participation underscored the significance of regional diplomacy and economic collaboration in driving growth and development across the region.
Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain noted that ASEAN, with over 700 million people and a collective GDP of more than $3.9 trillion, has emerged as a powerful economic bloc on the global stage. Pakistan, he said, shares longstanding cultural, historical, and strategic ties with ASEAN nations and is now seeking stronger commercial and investment linkages.
” Despite the potential, trade volumes between Pakistan and ASEAN countries remain below their true capacity. He urged for collective efforts to reduce trade barriers, enhance market access, and promote bilateral and multilateral investment, Minister said.
He further called for promoting people-to-people contact and simplifying visa procedures to boost tourism, academic partnerships, and cultural exchange. The Minister stressed that such soft connectivity plays an essential role in reinforcing trust and long-term collaboration between the regions.
He also pointed out the strategic value of regional connectivity, saying that Pakistan, through CPEC, offers a gateway to Central Asia and the Middle East, while ASEAN can connect Pakistan more deeply to East Asia and the Pacific.
Minister reiterated the Government of Pakistan’s full commitment to enhancing regional economic integration and promoting effective trade diplomacy. He acknowledged the pivotal role played by platforms such as FPCCI, ECO CCI, and CACCI in fostering cross-regional cooperation and business-to-business engagements. He described the interactive session not merely as a dialogue, but as a roadmap toward a future based on mutual growth, development, and regional resilience.
Mr. Rana Tanveer Hussain urged all stakeholders to move beyond symbolic agreements and instead work towards implementing joint ventures, exchange programs, and sustainable development initiatives. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to partner with ASEAN nations to unlock new opportunities for inclusive trade, strategic collaboration, and long-lasting friendship.
Federal Minister for BOI, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh said that Pakistan’s economy will exceed $1 trillion in the coming years and investors from China, the Middle East, and ASEAN countries have a golden opportunity to invest in Pakistan.
The minister said the Pakistani government is providing ample facilities to investors, and Pakistan’s economic rating is improving with each passing day.
A detailed presentation was delivered by Mr. Tufail Mehmood, Director General of the Board of Investment (BOI), showcasing Pakistan’s investment potential and strategic sectors attractive for ASEAN investors. His insights highlighted Pakistan’s geo-economic importance and the government’s reforms to ensure a business-friendly environment.
A key highlight of the event was the impactful presentation by Mr. Aun Ali Syed, Vice President FPCCI, on “Pathways to a Sustainable Blue Economy in Pakistan – Transforming Marine Resources into Engines of Growth.” His presentation received wide appreciation from all participants, especially the ambassadors, as it focused on unlocking the untapped potential of Pakistan’s maritime sector and promoting environmentally sustainable economic practices.
Other speakers included Ms. Qurratulain who stressed on removing trade barriers, enhancing private sector collaboration, and boosting infrastructure connectivity.Ms. Hina Mansab Khan, Chairperson SAARC-SCWEC, also attended and contributed valuable insights.
The seminar concluded with a consensus on the need for deeper regional engagement, sectoral collaboration, and a shared roadmap for future cooperation between Pakistan and ASEAN countries.
Key themes included enhancing trade and investment flows, negotiating favorable trade agreements, improving logistics and connectivity, and enabling the private sector to play a pivotal role in regional growth.
FPCCI reaffirmed its commitment to playing a proactive role in promoting Pakistan’s economic diplomacy and building bridges with ASEAN nations through continuous dialogue, mutual understanding, and joint ventures.
The event concluded with a strong consensus on strengthening Pakistan–ASEAN economic cooperation and translating shared visions into actionable outcomes.
