HC-designate to SA calls on president

Dr Sohail asked to promote mutual political, trade ties with South Africa

ISLAMABAD: President Mamnoon Hussain on Wednesday asked the High Commissioner-designate to South Africa to protect Pakistan’s national interests and promote bilateral political, economic and trade relations while projecting the soft image of Pakistan.

Talking to High Commissioner-designate of Pakistan to South Africa Dr Sohail Khan who called on him at the Aiwan-e-Sadr, the president said it is an important assignment as both countries have enjoyed warm and cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1994. He emphasised that the high commissioner should focus on enhancing bilateral trade with South Africa to exploit the true potential of the two countries. He stressed the need to find ways to benefit from South Africa’s strong manufacturing and technological base and its expertise in high-end industrial production. 

The president hoped the recent signing of MoU on defence and defence industrial cooperation is a great step forward which will provide an institutional mechanism for enhancing defence collaboration with South Africa. He urged the HC-designate to South Africa to ensure South Africa’s regular participation in IDEAS.