The local exporters and traders have hailed the free trade agreement (FTA) between Pakistan and China and termed it a historic event in the history of the country.
In an interview with Business Recorder here on Wednesday, Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) President Sheikh Abdul Waheed Sandal said the FTA between the two countries would not only further cement the existing friendly ties but also help boost industrial production and expand trade relations between the two countries.
Waheed Sandal said the agreement would promote economic co-operation and expand boundaries of trade between Pakistan and China. There was a vast scope for the Chinese private sector to invest in various trade fields of Pakistan, including sports goods, surgical instruments leather goods industries of Sialkot.
The FTA between the two friendly countries would help bringing closer the business communities of Pakistan and China and ensure the frequent exchange of trade delegations, which would also help in understanding each others viewpoint for exploring possibilities of joint ventures and investment, he was of the opinion.
The SCCI president said there were bright opportunities for Chinese businessmen for establishing industries in Sialkot Export Processing Zone (SEPZ) as well as establish joint ventures with local businessmen. Abdul Waheed termed the signing of FTA an historic event and said that it was a symbol of deep friendship and love between Pakistan and China.