Turkish Ambassador Dr Mehmet Paçaci visited the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry and expressed his support for a free trade agreement (FTA) between Turkey and Pakistan. He stated that the current preferential trade agreement was insufficient to promote bilateral economic ties, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive FTA.
Dr. Pacaci highlighted the strong economic, commercial, diplomatic, and cultural relations between the two countries, urging further cooperation and coordination to enhance investments.
During the visit, Dr. Pacaci announced that his embassy was implementing an improved mechanism for issuing tourist and business visas to Pakistanis. He assured that business visas would be fast-tracked upon formal recommendations from the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
?Acting President of SCCI, Ijaz Khan Afridi, supported the FTA proposal, underscoring its potential to strengthen commercial and economic relations. He suggested joint ventures, exchange of business delegations, and exploration of investment opportunities as means to foster bilateral trade.
?Mr. Afridi also called for streamlined visa procedures and proposed the possibility of barter trade between the two countries. He believed that the FTA could substantially increase bilateral trade volume, reaching $5 billion and eventually $15 billion.
Additionally, the Turkish Ambassador inaugurated an upgraded pediatric ward at the Peshawar Institute of Cardiology (PIC). Expressing pride in Turkey’s contribution to improving healthcare services for Pakistanis, Dr. Pacaci highlighted collaboration between Turkish institutions and their Pakistani counterparts in health, education, and women’s development sectors.
The upgraded pediatric unit was equipped with advanced machinery, including infusion pumps, ECHO machines, screens, and dedicated play areas for children.
?Dr. Pacaci praised the facility for providing the highest standard of care and comfort to young heart patients.During his visit to the hospital, the ambassador was accompanied by Tika coordinator in Pakistan, Muhsin Balci, PIC medical director Prof Syed Shahkar Ahmad Shah, and senior consultants.?