Pakistan and Kuwait will sign a $25 million loan agreement for the Mohmand Dam on June 3, 2024, marking a significant step in enhancing bilateral relations.
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The 5th Session of the Pakistan-Kuwait Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC), held from May 28 to 30, 2024, in Kuwait, marked a significant milestone in Pakistan-Kuwait bilateral relations.
Chaired by Abdul Aleem Khan, Pakistan’s Minister for Privatization, and Omar Saud Al-Omar, Kuwait’s Minister for Commerce and Industry, the session culminated in an agreement to sign a $25 million loan for the Mohmand Dam on June 3, 2024.
Key Agreements and Collaborations
The Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development assured its support for engaging the Arab Coordination Group in financing the Diamer Bhasha Dam and expressed willingness to consider Pakistan’s request to finance the Kachhi Canal project.
Abdul Aleem Khan emphasized the importance of private sector engagement in strengthening economic ties and urged Kuwait to streamline visa procedures for Pakistanis, highlighting Pakistan’s skilled workforce.
Key Outcomes of the 5th Session of the JMC
| Project | Funding Amount | Source | Key Support Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mohmand Dam | $25 million | Kuwait Fund | Infrastructure, Water Management |
| Diamer Bhasha Dam | TBD | Arab Coordination Group | Large-Scale Hydro Projects |
| Kachhi Canal Project | TBD | Kuwait Fund | Irrigation, Agricultural Development |
Enhancing Bilateral Cooperation
The high-level Pakistani delegation included representatives from various key ministries, such as Economic Affairs, Foreign Affairs, Commerce, Overseas Pakistanis, and HRD.
Ziad Abdullah Al-Najem, undersecretary of the Ministry of Trade & Industry, warmly welcomed the Pakistani delegation and emphasized the session’s pivotal role in advancing bilateral relations.
Abdul Aleem Khan expressed contentment regarding the JMC’s convening and highlighted the focal points of bilateral discussions.
He invited Kuwaiti investors to leverage Pakistan’s Special Investment Facilitation Council, identifying key sectors ripe for investment.
Dr. Kazim Niaz, Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs and head of the technical delegation, emphasized the JMC’s potential in augmenting trade and fostering cooperation in education, science, and culture.
He praised Kuwait’s investment in Pakistan’s strategic sectors and expressed optimism for mutual economic and cultural benefits.
Sectors Discussed for Cooperation
| Sector | Focus Areas |
|---|---|
| Commerce and Trade | Bilateral Trade Enhancements |
| Food Security & Livestock | Sustainable Agriculture Practices |
| Maritime & Ports | Infrastructure Development |
| Industries & Production | Industrial Growth and Innovation |
| Investment | Attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) |
| Energy, Oil & Natural Resources | Renewable Energy Projects |
| Overseas Employment | Labor Market Cooperation |
| Visa | Streamlined Visa Procedures |
| Higher Education | Academic Exchange Programs |
| Science & Technology | Joint Research and Development (R&D) Initiatives |
| Banking & Finance | Financial Sector Collaboration |
| Taxation | Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreements |
| Arts and Culture | Cultural Exchange Programs |
| Sports & Tourism | Promoting Tourism and Sports Collaboration |
| Health | Healthcare Initiatives |
| Information & Broadcasting | Media Partnerships |
| Development Cooperation | Joint Development Projects |
Future Prospects
During the JMC proceedings, several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements were signed in fields such as industrial cooperation, engineering councils, and news exchange.
Consensus was reached to formalize MoUs for collaboration in agriculture, maritime, and ports, avoidance of double taxation, quality and safety standards, and higher education.
Abdul Aleem Khan expressed gratitude to Kuwait for hosting the 5th Session of the JMC and acknowledged the diligent efforts of experts from both nations. He looked forward to the 6th Session of the JMC in Islamabad, anticipating significant progress in all areas of mutual interest.
Omar Saud Al-Omar reiterated Kuwait’s unwavering commitment to implementing the discussed measures, reaffirming the mutual determination to foster a dynamic partnership between Pakistan and Kuwait.
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