The Consul General of Switzerland, Didier Boschung hosted a reception at his residence to welcome the new Ambassador of Switzerland, Christoph Bubb and his wife in Karachi. This is their first visit to the metropolitan area since the Ambassador took charge of his office in Islamabad on October 20th 2010.
During his stay, the Ambassador met with government officials, the heads of the Swiss companies operating in Karachi and representatives of the business community as well as civil society and media. Talking to media representatives present on the occasion, Ambassador Bubb pointed out that Karachi is one of the world's largest metropolitan cities and an important contributor to the national and global economy.
It holds a particular significance for Switzerland as out of 18 Swiss multinational companies operating in Pakistan 15 are established in Karachi and are successfully operating in key sectors, such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, banking and other service industries. These companies stand for reliable and high-quality products and services and offer thousands of attractive employment opportunities across the country. The Swiss companies operating here are generally satisfied with the course of business and - based on the market potential - maintain an optimistic outlook despite concerns related to the ongoing energy shortages and the law-and-order situation.
On the trading side, Karachi continues to be headquarter of the local representatives/trading partners of about 200 Swiss companies, the majority of which pertain to the machinery and equipment, watches, pharmaceutical and chemicals sectors. In the machinery group, food processing and textile machinery and accessories manufacturers have a major representation and hold a distinct position in the market.
With regards to the relief provided to the flood victims, the Ambassador apprised the media that within the first few days of the catastrophic rainfall, the Swiss Agency for Development and Co-operation (SDC) Humanitarian Aid took immediate measures to provide emergency relief in the northern districts of D.1. Khan and Karak. The flood victims received drinking water, food and hygiene kits, in addition to tarpaulins and plastic sheeting for shelters and tents along with household kits and hygiene articles in the badly affected areas of the Swat Valley and in the province of Sindh.
The Ambassador said that the SBC in Karachi - together with its counterpart - the Swiss Asian Chamber of Commerce in Zurich, is preparing a business delegation that will visit Switzerland in the first half of 2011. He praised the SBC for striving to further promote economic relations between Pakistan and Switzerland and assured them of his fullest support.-PR
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