June 17, 2010

High Commissioner of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Guyana, H.E Miangul Akbar Zeb, on Tuesday June 15, 2010 paid a courtesy call on the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI).

During his visit, High Commissioner Zeb met with President of GCCI, Mr. Komal Ramnauth, and Senior Vice President of the Chamber, Mr. Eon Caesar to discuss possible areas of collaboration between Guyana and Pakistan.

Mr. Ramnauth welcomed the High Commissioner and expressed appreciation for visit. He also indicated that the Chamber is willing on collaborate on several ventures.

Mr. Caesar also welcomed High Commissioner Zeb and noted that there are a lot of resources in Pakistan that will be beneficial to Guyana and vice versa.

High Commissioner Zeb said that he will endeavor to develop commercial relations since he sees much scope for enhancement.  According to him, he envisions an exhibition of Pakistani goods and services in Guyana in the not too distant future.

He added that he is looking at the possibility of several joint ventures since there are Pakistani investors who have expressed interest. High Commissioner Zeb noted that one of the first things he aims to do is to have an agreement between the GCCI and the corresponding entity in Pakistan.

Mr. Ramnauth pointed out that there is huge potential for investment in the Mining and agriculture sectors. He added that gold exports went up by a large percentage in the first quarter of this year and the rice and sugar industries are also doing well.

Responding to questions about the state of the economy, Mr. Ramnauth said that Guyana’s economy is healthy but the next step is to make it a wealthy one. According to him, constitutional, tax and security sector reforms would fuel change.

High Commissioner Zeb presented his letters of Credence to President Bharrat Jagdeo on June 14, 2010. Diplomatic relations between Guyana and Pakistan were established in November 1967.