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Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan’s visit to Oman

A significant step towards strengthening Pakistan-Oman economic and trade ties.

Written by: Muhammad Usman Hashmi Date 14-03-2025
Published by: Shaandar Bukhari

In a Strategic visit aimed at bolstering economic ties between Pakistan and Oman, Federal Minister for Commerce, H.E. Jam Kamal Khan, embarked on an official tour to the Sultanate, Arriving at Muscat International Airport, the Minister was warmly received by diplomatic dignitaries from the Pakistani Embassy, The Ambassador H.E Syed Naveed Safdar Bokhari, Deputy Head of Mission Bilal Hassan, and Commercial Counsellor Ishrat Hussain Bhatti, as well as Omani officials including Minister Counselor Rashid Al Rashdi and Relations Specialist Abdullah Al Jabri. During this visit his engagements with key Omani leaders, industrialists, and government officials underscored the commitment of both nations to expanding trade, investment, and strategic cooperation.

Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan’s visit to Oman

The visit was marked by a significant meeting between H.E. Jam Kamal Khan and H.E. Qais Al Yousef, Oman’s Minister of Commerce, Industry & Investment Promotion. Discussions centered on enhancing bilateral trade, promoting investment, and leveraging Pakistan’s industrial expertise to support Oman’s Vision 2040 economic diversification strategy. Both sides recognized the strategic advantage of direct trade linkages, with Pakistan serving as a vital trade route to the Central Asian Republics (CARs).

The Pakistani delegation highlighted Gwadar and Karachi ports as Vital hubs for regional trade, offering Oman expanded market access. Key sectors such as textiles, SMEs, agriculture, and manufacturing were identified for potential collaboration, with an emphasis on joint ventures and sustainable trade partnerships.

The Minister’s visit to the Invest Oman Lounge provided insights into Oman’s investor friendly ecosystem. H.E. Jam Kamal Khan lauded Invest Oman and noted its similarity to Pakistan’s one window investment facilitation model. He advocated for deeper collaboration between Invest Oman, Oman Investment Authority, and Pakistan’s Special Investment Facilitation Council.

A pivotal meeting took place between H.E. Jam Kamal Khan, Federal Minister for Commerce, and H.E. Muhammad Bin Sulaiman Al Kindi, the Governor of North Batinah, Oman, focusing on expanding trade and investment opportunities. In continuation of these discussions, H.E. Jam Kamal Khan conducted an industrial tour of Sohar Port and Free Zone, where he engaged with H.E. Mohammad Al Shizawi, CEO of Sohar Freezone, and other senior officials. The discussions emphasized leveraging Sohar’s advanced logistical capabilities to strengthen trade routes through Pakistan, facilitating greater connectivity with Asian and Central Asian markets.

At the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), the Minister met with Chairman H.E Sheikh Faisal Abdullah Al Rawas to explore avenues for deepening commercial ties. A B2B networking session was organized, connecting Pakistani business delegates with Omani investors. OCCI officials reaffirmed their commitment to increasing Pakistani exports to Oman, with a focus on enhancing business linkages and activating the Joint Business Council between both nations.

A significant meeting with H.E. Saud bin Hamoud Al Habsi, Oman’s Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources, delved into collaborative efforts to strengthen food security. Pakistan’s vast agricultural potential was highlighted, with discussions revolving around supply chain sustainability and agricultural trade. Oman invited Pakistani food processing companies to expand operations in the Sultanate, signaling increased trade opportunities in this vital sector.

The Pakistan Embassy in Muscat hosted an Iftar reception in honor of the Minister, attended by Pakistani community leaders, businessmen, and professionals. H.E. Jam Kamal Khan emphasized the enduring ties between Pakistan and Oman, stressing the importance of people-to-people connections in fostering economic and cultural bonds.

H.E. Jam Kamal Khan’s visit reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its economic footprint in Oman. By fostering joint ventures, enhancing trade connectivity, and collaborating on investment opportunities, both nations stand to benefit from a robust and dynamic partnership.

With continued diplomatic and economic collaboration, the future of Pakistan-Oman relations looks promising, setting the stage for mutual growth and prosperity. A well-deserved round of applause to H.E. Syed Naveed Safdar Bokhari, The Ambassador of Pakistan to Oman, Commercial Counsellor Ishrat Hussain Bhatti, & the dedicated team of Pakistan Embassy in Oman for their outstanding efforts in shaping a promising roadmap for bilateral collaboration. The outcomes of these high-level engagements pave the way for a more integrated and prosperous economic relationship between Pakistan and Oman.