The Pakistan Africa Economic Council (PAEC) Federal Chapter held its Oath-Taking Ceremony at the COMSTECH Secretariat in Islamabad, reaffirming Pakistan Africa cooperation through a series of practical initiatives. Diplomats, vice chancellors of leading universities, professionals and foreign guests from the African region attended the event, underlining the growing significance of ties between Pakistan and African countries.
Mr. Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce, served as the chief guest and administered the oath to the newly elected office bearers. He congratulated the team and described the ceremony as a renewed commitment to integrity, cooperation and economic diplomacy, highlighting PAEC’s role as a bridge for export-led growth, market diversification and enhanced South–South cooperation.
The programme opened with a recitation from the Holy Quran followed by the National Anthem. Welcome remarks were delivered by Dr. Abdul Basit, Senior Vice President PAEC Islamabad Region, and addresses outlining PAEC’s vision and roadmap were given by Dr. Shahbaz Ali Malik, Founder Chairman PAEC, and Mr. Shaikh Rashid Alam, Secretary General PAEC.
In a move to deepen Pakistan Africa cooperation, the PAEC leadership announced 100 scholarships and 100 internships for African nationals to promote education, skills development and people-to-people links. Officials also pledged facilitation of visa access, payment facilitation for businesses and hands-on support for trade and investment cooperation to make commercial engagement smoother and more effective.
Additional measures include a 30 percent discount for African citizens at the Rawal Institute of Health Sciences and the Ujala Centre of Excellence, part of a wider effort to strengthen educational and health-related exchanges. These steps are intended to complement government priorities for market diversification and stronger economic links with Africa.
The oath-taking concluded with souvenir distribution and a vote of thanks by Mr. Abdul Wajid, President PAEC Federal Chapter. The proceedings were conducted and formally closed by Mr. Muhammad Murtaza Noor, Secretary General PAEC Islamabad Chapter, who reaffirmed the council’s commitment to advancing Pakistan Africa cooperation through sustained partnership and practical initiatives.
