The first-ever Pak-Oman Business Expo, held on the 13th and 14th of October 2024, marked a significant milestone in promoting Pakistani products in Oman and further strengthening the long-standing relationship between Pakistan and Oman. This groundbreaking event was the realization of a vision by H.E. Imran Ali Chaudhary, the Ambassador of Pakistan to Oman to showcase the power of bilateral trade in fostering deeper ties between these brotherly nations.
Driven by the goal to boost trade and elevate the image of Pakistani industries abroad, H.E. Imran Ali Chaudhary embarked on an ambitious journey. His dream, fueled by careful planning and unwavering determination, culminated in this historic business expo, where more than 60 exhibitors from sectors including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, textiles, leather, IT, and construction gathered to showcase their products. The event drew an impressive audience, including dignitaries such as H.E. Faisal Bin Abdullah Al Rawas, Chairman of Oman’s Chamber of Commerce, and Ambassador Ahmed Bin Hashel Al Maskari, head of GCC in the Omani Foreign Ministry, alongside prominent Omani and Pakistani business leaders.
The Pak-Oman Business Expo was more than just a trade event. It was a platform that forged new business relationships, with exhibitors securing deals worth over USD 15 million, showcasing the untapped potential of Pakistani products. This expo, a first of its kind in the GCC, not only boosted Pakistan’s trade footprint in Oman but also encouraged deeper economic collaboration between the two countries.
The success of the expo can be attributed to the tireless efforts of Ms. Noureen Yaqoob, who meticulously oversaw every detail of the event’s organization. Working alongside H.E. Imran Ali Chaudhary, Ms. Noureen Yaqoob formed a team of dedicated volunteers from the Pakistani diaspora in Oman, including talented young professionals, intellectuals, and businessmen. This team, which included Mr. Ishrat Hussain Bhatti Counsellor (Commercial), Mr. Qamar Riaz and his colleagues, worked day and night in collaboration with the Embassy of Pakistan to bring the Ambassador’s vision to life.
The event also included a unique session moderated by Ambassador Imran Ali Chaudhary himself, aimed at supporting small Pakistani business owners looking to establish themselves in Oman. His message resonated strongly with the Pakistani community in Oman, as he emphasized that no matter where you are in the world, your priority should always be to uplift your country.
The Pak-Oman Business Expo has set the stage for future collaboration, cementing a stronger trade relationship between the two nations and promising a prosperous future for both the Pakistani community in Oman and Pakistan itself. Participants left with valuable insights, connections, and a renewed sense of purpose to promote Pakistani products.
As an overseas Pakistani who attended the event, I can say that H.E. Imran Ali’s dedication to the community and his tireless efforts will be remembered in golden words. His leadership not only elevated Pakistani trade but also inspired us all to continue working for the betterment of Pakistan.
Written BY: Muhammad Usman