RAWALPINDI, Pakistan – In a significant step to deepen economic ties, His Excellency Dr. Oumer Hussein Oba, Ambassador-Designate of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, undertook a landmark visit to the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) on Wednesday.
The high-level engagement focused on forging robust bilateral cooperation and spotlighting the transformative investment landscape within Ethiopia’s rapidly evolving economy.
Strengthening Bilateral Frameworks
The discussions centered on enhancing trade volumes, facilitating investment, and establishing institutional linkages between Pakistani and Ethiopian business entities. Both parties deliberated on practical mechanisms to foster seamless cooperation, aiming to unlock new avenues for mutual economic growth and strengthen the foundation of Pakistan-Ethiopia relations.
Showcasing Ethiopia’s Reform-Driven Opportunities
Addressing a gathering of prominent Pakistani business leaders from diverse sectors, Ambassador Oba detailed the ambitious homegrown economic reforms implemented by the Ethiopian government. He emphasized that these reforms have catalysed exceptional opportunities, particularly in five priority sectors: agriculture and agro-processing, manufacturing, mining, tourism, and Information & Communication Technology (ICT).
Call to Action: “Invest in Ethiopia” Forum 2026
A key highlight of the meeting was the Ambassador’s formal invitation to the Pakistani business community to participate in the high-profile “Invest in Ethiopia” forum, scheduled for March 26–27, 2026, in Addis Ababa. The forum is poised to assemble over 700 international investors, policymakers, and development partners, serving as a premier platform for strategic engagement.
Ambassador Oba assured the Chamber of the Embassy’s full commitment to facilitating and supporting Pakistani enterprises keen on exploring the vast potential of the Ethiopian market.
Chamber Leadership Emphasizes People-Centric Diplomacy
RCCI President, H.E. Usman Shaukat, warmly welcomed the Ambassador, underscoring the growing synergy between the Chamber and the Ethiopian Embassy. He articulated that strong people-to-people connections are the cornerstone of effective economic diplomacy, necessitating dedicated efforts from both nations to bring their business communities closer.
President Shaukat further commended the remarkable economic progress achieved by Ethiopia under the leadership of Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed, noting the substantial potential for expanded trade and investment linkages.
The meeting also featured insights from Senior Vice President Mr. Khalid Farooq Qazi, Vice President Mr. Fahad Barlas, and Former President Mr. Raja Amer, all of whom expressed optimism about the future trajectory of Ethiopia-Pakistan economic relations.
The proceedings concluded with an interactive question-and-answer session, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony hosted by the RCCI in celebration of Christmas, reflecting the spirit of camaraderie and shared goodwill.
BY: Nadeem Faisal Baiga
