MANILA: Pakistan and the Philippines have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral trade and investment, with a focus on agriculture, energy, minerals, and improved business mobility during high-level talks held in Manila.
The discussions took place during the second session of the Pakistan-Philippines Joint Economic Commission, co-chaired by Pakistan’s Secretary of Economic Affairs Muhammad Humair Karim and Philippine Undersecretary for International Trade Allan B. Gepty. Senior officials from both sides also participated in the meeting.
According to Pakistan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, both countries explored avenues to enhance commercial ties, including the organisation of trade exhibitions and the establishment of a dedicated business forum. The revival of the Pakistan-Philippines Joint Business Council was also supported to encourage greater private sector engagement.
The two sides reviewed the need to update the existing Double Taxation Agreement to align it with modern international standards. Pakistan proposed signing a memorandum of understanding between the respective investment boards and discussed forming a joint working group on investment to streamline collaboration and facilitate new ventures.
In the agriculture sector, opportunities for boosting exports of agricultural commodities and halal-certified products were highlighted. Potential cooperation in seed development and irrigation initiatives also featured prominently in the talks.
Energy and minerals emerged as key areas of mutual interest, with both countries discussing collaboration in upstream exploration activities and the exchange of mining technologies. The discussions reflected a shared intent to leverage technical expertise and resource potential for long-term economic benefit.
Both sides also underscored the importance of establishing a predictable and efficient visa regime to facilitate smoother business travel and strengthen people-to-people and commercial linkages.
The meeting was attended by Pakistan’s Ambassador to the Philippines Dr Asma Rabbani and the Philippine Ambassador to Pakistan Dr Emmanuel Fernandez, along with senior government representatives from both countries.
