Economic Diplomacy Drives Pakistan’s Export Push as MOFA Strengthens Industry Partnership
Pakistan’s Foreign Office pledges stronger trade diplomacy, expanded market access and closer coordination with industry to boost exports and attract foreign investment.
MOFA DG Irfan Soomro receives a commemorative shield from KATI officials in Karachi.
KARACHI: Economic Diplomacy has become a central pillar of Pakistan’s foreign policy as the government intensifies efforts to expand exports, attract foreign investment and open new international markets. Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) Liaison Office Karachi, Muhammad Irfan Soomro, shared the vision during his visit to the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI).
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He said Pakistan’s Foreign Office now focuses on trade, investment and business opportunities alongside traditional diplomacy. He described the industrial sector as the backbone of the national economy and said sustainable growth depends on strong industrial development.
Foreign Office Expands Trade Role
Soomro said the Foreign Office works with embassies and trade missions to promote Pakistani products worldwide. It also helps businesses enter new markets and build international partnerships.
He said Pakistan is targeting emerging markets in Africa, Central Asia, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. Diplomatic missions will support exporters and investors in these regions.
Government Seeks Greater Export Growth
The DG said the ministry has supported Pakistan on major international economic issues. These include GSP Plus, IMF engagement and FATF compliance.
He added that international credit rating agencies have improved Pakistan’s outlook because of ongoing economic reforms. The government also continues to introduce measures that encourage exports and strengthen investor confidence.
After outlining these priorities, Soomro said Economic Diplomacy now plays a bigger role in helping Pakistani businesses compete globally. He urged exporters to share product information and investment opportunities with Pakistani embassies. This would allow diplomats to promote local businesses more effectively.
He also announced that the Foreign Office will appoint a dedicated focal officer to coordinate with KATI and resolve members’ trade-related issues.
KATI Calls for Stronger Trade Support
KATI President Muhammad Ikram Rajput urged Pakistan’s embassies to establish stronger Trade and Investment Desks. He said exporters need easier access to overseas buyers and investors.
Rajput also called for better diplomatic support during international trade fairs and business exhibitions. He urged the government to simplify business visa procedures and expand exports to non-traditional markets.
He proposed a permanent consultation mechanism involving the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Commerce, TDAP and industrial associations. He said closer cooperation would strengthen exports and improve foreign exchange reserves.
Commercial Attachés Must Engage Industry
Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya stressed the importance of stronger coordination between commercial attachés and exporters.
He said limited engagement has slowed Pakistan’s export growth. Better communication would help businesses identify new opportunities and solve market access problems.
Chhaya also highlighted the contribution of overseas Pakistanis. He noted that remittances now exceed Pakistan’s export earnings. He urged the Foreign Office to provide greater support to overseas communities.
Industry Presents Recommendations
During the interactive session, KATI members shared proposals on industrial development, export promotion and investment facilitation.
Participants recommended stronger cooperation between government institutions and the private sector. They said closer coordination would improve Pakistan’s trade performance and support long-term economic growth.
