ASEAN, Pakistan Explore New Trade and Investment Opportunities at ASEAN Day in Islamabad

Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: The ASEAN Committee in Islamabad (ACI), under the chairship of the Philippines, joined the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) in commemorating ASEAN Day and exploring new avenues for trade, investment and business cooperation between ASEAN member states and Pakistan.

Philippine Ambassador to Pakistan and current ACI Chair H.E. Dr. Emmanuel R. Fernandez participated in the event alongside Heads of Mission and representatives from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam.

The gathering brought together ASEAN diplomatic representatives and members of Islamabad’s business community to discuss opportunities for expanding commercial ties, investment and connectivity between Pakistan and ASEAN countries.

ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood called for stronger business-to-business cooperation in key sectors, including information and communications technology, halal products, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, tourism, logistics, renewable energy and manufacturing.

ASEAN representatives highlighted opportunities for increased trade, investment and connectivity with their respective countries, emphasizing the potential for Pakistani businesses to establish stronger commercial partnerships across the ASEAN region.

Ambassador Fernandez encouraged businesses on both sides to pursue cooperation beyond conventional trade and focus on joint ventures and long-term partnerships.

“The more relevant question should be: What can Pakistan and ASEAN build together?” he said.

Held under the Philippines’ 2026 ASEAN Chairship theme, “Navigating Our Future Together,” the event emphasized the important role of the private sector in converting diplomatic and governmental opportunities into practical business partnerships.

The ASEAN Day celebration featured the national anthem of Pakistan and “The ASEAN Way,” followed by business interaction, networking and a commemorative cake-cutting ceremony.

The event reaffirmed the shared commitment to strengthening Pakistan-ASEAN economic relations and expanding mutually beneficial cooperation across diverse sectors.