KARACHI (special crosspondent) – Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI), has issued a call for a more proactive and commercially oriented engagement with ASEAN nations. Emphasizing the necessity for enhanced trade, investment, and technological cooperation, he highlighted the vital role of business-to-business linkages between Pakistan and the ASEAN bloc.

Addressing the commemoration of ASEAN Day 2026 at Federation House in Karachi, held under the theme “Strengthening Pakistan–ASEAN Trade, Investment and Economic Partnership,” Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh noted that the growing economic stature of ASEAN presents substantial opportunities for Pakistani exporters and investors. The discussion mirrors broader regional efforts similar to how Pakistan continues a constructive role in regional security and economic frameworks. Mr. Sheikh stressed that the private sector must prioritize direct interactions, including regular business delegations, trade exhibitions, and the strengthening of institutional frameworks.

Expanding Economic Horizons

Mr. Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, Senior Vice President of FPCCI, underscored the immense untapped potential within the current bilateral economic relations. He revealed that FPCCI is spearheading an initiative to establish the Pakistan–ASEAN Business Council, intended to serve as a specialized platform for fostering joint ventures and streamlining trade delegations. Key sectors identified for immediate collaborative focus include textiles, information technology, food processing, agriculture, cold storage, engineering, automotive components, tourism, and the blue economy. Magoon further advocated for improved air and maritime connectivity to bolster tourism and cargo efficiency.

Adding to the discourse, former SVP of FPCCI Mr. Hanif Gohar argued for the transformation of existing diplomatic rapport into robust commercial partnerships. He urged local enterprises to seek active participation in ASEAN-based exhibitions and to prioritize market-oriented ventures, ensuring that institutional cooperation remains a consistent policy priority.

Diplomatic and Industrial Perspectives

The high-level event convened Consul Generals and diplomats from ASEAN member states, representatives from ASEAN dialogue partner countries, and officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Global insights were provided by prominent figures, including Mr. Masatomo Itonaga, Country Head of JETRO, and Mr. Sungwoon Hwang, Director General of KOTRA, who discussed regional market trends and technology integration. Such international coordination is vital for regional stability and growth, much like Pakistan and Egypt’s recent agreement to enhance agricultural cooperation and cotton production quality.

Technical presentations were delivered by Mr. Naseem Rashed, Trade and Investment Counsellor of Pakistan for ASEAN; Mr. Nadar Ali Ghanghro of the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation; and Ms. Maria Eugenia, Technical Advisor for the Philippine Pharmaceutical Industry. The sessions provided granular data on sector-specific opportunities for Pakistani businesses looking to expand their regional footprint.

The event concluded with a consensus on the necessity for sustained engagement to turn historical ties into tangible economic dividends. FPCCI reaffirmed its pledge to work alongside ASEAN diplomatic missions and stakeholders to build a broader, mutually beneficial economic framework, continuing to leverage platforms similar to those discussed when organisations like ISSI and PAIDAR celebrate international milestones.

Caption: Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President FPCCI, delivers his keynote address during the ASEAN DAY 2026 event at Federation House, Karachi. He was joined by SVP FPCCI Mr. Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, industrialist Mr. Bashir Janmohammed, and a large assembly of international diplomats and business leaders.