PH, Pakistan Discuss Stronger PH-Pakistan Economic Ties at Joint Economic Commission
Undersecretary Dr. Ceferino Rodolfo presenting speaks at a gathering of Pakistani businessmen organized by the Pakistan-Philippines Business Forum (PPBF).
02 March 2018 – Key officials from the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Pakistan Ministry of Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs met in Islamabad on 27-28 February 2018 for the inaugural session of the Philippines-Pakistan Joint Economic Commission (JEC).
Undersecretary for Industry and Trade Policy Dr. Ceferino S. Rodolfo and Secretary of the Economic Affairs Division Arif Ahmed Khan co-chaired the meeting, which gathered both countries’ economic officials to discuss ways of enhancing bilateral economic cooperation especially in the areas of trade, investment, energy, agriculture, tourism, health, industries and other matters of mutual interest.
The two countries agreed to activate the Pakistan-Philippines Joint Business Forum and Council with the participation of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Philippines and Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry. They also agreed to conduct feasibility studies on the possibility of ‘Preferential Trade Agreement’ and for the formation of a technical working group with the JEC for this purpose.
At the sidelines of the JEC, Undersecretary Rodolfo discussed opportunities for Pakistan-Philippine economic relations at a gathering of Pakistani businessmen organized by the Pakistan-Philippines Business Forum (PPBF).
During his stay in Pakistan, Undersecretary Rodolfo also called on the Minister for Commerce and Textile and the Federal Secretary for the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulation and Coordination.
The next JEC meeting is scheduled to be held in Manila. END
Secretary Arif Ahmed Khan, Undersecretary Dr. Ceferino Rodolfo and Ambassador Daniel R. Espiritu (Middle row: 6th, 7th, and 8th from the left) along with the rest of the delegation to the Inaugural Joint Economic Commission.