The Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East & Africa (CAMEA) at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad hosted a special event to mark Africa Day 2026, bringing together diplomats, academics, students and the African diaspora to discuss deepening Pakistan Africa ties.
The programme opened with the national anthems of Pakistan and a specially composed anthem for the African Union. Dr. Amina Khan, Director CAMEA, moderated the proceedings and set the tone by underlining Africa’s resilience and the growing importance of Pakistan–Africa relations.
Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman Board of Governors, extended warm greetings on the 63rd Africa Day and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening partnership with African countries, stressing enhanced engagement in trade, education and people-to-people exchanges while applauding CAMEA’s role in sustained dialogue.
Engineer Khurram Dastagir Khan, the event’s chief guest, highlighted the rising opportunities across the African continent and urged Pakistan to deepen economic and institutional links. He noted challenges such as limited banking channels and direct flights but said those barriers are increasingly surmountable, pointing to Gwadar Port, improved shipping, banking and digital links as enablers for closer cooperation.
Ambassador Brahim Romani, Acting Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of Algeria to Pakistan, recalled Pakistan’s early support for African liberation movements and called for that historic goodwill to translate into stronger economic cooperation, expanded trade and more active private sector engagement. He recommended closer institutional linkages and the appointment of a special envoy for Africa to advance South–South cooperation.
H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, speaking on Africa Day priorities, reiterated the continent’s commitment to unity, Agenda 2063 and the vision of “The Africa We Want,” noting AU reforms and this year’s emphasis on water, sanitation and climate resilience as central to sustainable development and a stronger global voice.
Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan, Additional Foreign Secretary (Africa), highlighted the strategic case for Pakistan to deepen engagement with Africa, pointing to opportunities in agriculture, food security, natural resources and the continent’s youthful demographics. He urged expanded cooperation in education, healthcare, information technology, pharmaceuticals, tourism and sports alongside stronger connectivity and awareness of mutual opportunities.
An interactive discussion followed with representatives of African missions in Islamabad sharing perspectives, while heads of Pakistan missions in Africa joined virtually to underscore prospects for closer ties. Stalls organised by African missions showcased food, crafts and cultural artwork, allowing attendees to engage directly with African cultures.
The event on Africa Day 2026 affirmed a shared agenda for increased trade, institutional collaboration and people-to-people exchange, signalling renewed momentum in Pakistan Africa relations driven by dialogue, practical connectivity and South–South cooperation.
