The Rwanda Pakistan Business Forum is expected to create new opportunities for trade, investment and joint ventures between the two countries, according to Ambassador Hamid Asghar Khan.
The Patron-in-Chief of the Pakistan Africa Economic Council (PAEC) made the comments during a press conference at the Embassy of Rwanda before a Pakistani business delegation travelled to Kigali.
The forum is scheduled for September 23 to 25, 2026. During the three-day event, Pakistani companies will have an opportunity to explore business partnerships and investment projects in Rwanda.
Hamid Asghar said PAEC fully supports the forum and the delegation’s visit. He also described the trip as an important step toward expanding Pakistan’s economic engagement with Rwanda and the wider African market.
Pakistan seeks stronger African trade ties
According to Hamid Asghar, the Global South is becoming an increasingly important part of the world economy.
Meanwhile, Africa continues to attract international businesses because of its expanding markets and investment opportunities. He said Pakistan should make greater use of these opportunities.
The ambassador described Pakistan’s “Look Africa” policy as a positive starting point. However, he said stronger government and private-sector engagement would be needed to build long-term economic relationships with African countries.
In addition, he called for sustained political support to help Pakistani companies enter and compete in growing African markets.
Rwanda offers investment opportunities
Hamid Asghar highlighted Rwanda as a potential destination for Pakistani businesses.
He described the East African country as competitive and business-friendly. Among the factors he identified were security and stability, skilled workers, access to land and energy, and a supportive business environment.
As a result, he said Rwanda could offer opportunities for international companies seeking partnerships and new markets.
Several sectors could benefit from closer cooperation. These include pharmaceuticals, agriculture, food processing, information technology and manufacturing.
Employment generation could also become an important part of bilateral economic cooperation. Furthermore, Pakistani companies could explore joint ventures with Rwandan businesses in areas where both sides have commercial interests.
Pakistani delegation to meet Rwandan businesses
The Pakistani delegation is expected to hold meetings with government institutions, business leaders, investors and private-sector representatives during its visit.
During these meetings, participants will discuss trade and investment opportunities as well as potential joint ventures.
Technology cooperation will also feature in the discussions. In addition, the two sides are expected to examine opportunities in manufacturing, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and information technology.
These talks could help businesses identify specific projects and potential commercial partners.
Business forum could expand bilateral cooperation
Hamid Asghar said Rwanda’s economic growth has created opportunities for Pakistani investors and companies.
Therefore, he encouraged Pakistani businesses to look beyond traditional markets and examine opportunities in East Africa.
He also pointed to growing international interest in economies across the region. For Pakistani companies, stronger connections with Rwanda could provide access to new customers, investment projects and business partnerships.
The delegation’s visit is expected to focus on practical commercial opportunities rather than diplomatic engagement alone.
At the same time, greater business-to-business contact could help strengthen long-term economic relations between Pakistan and Rwanda.
Trade agreement seen as key milestone
A bilateral trade agreement is also expected to be an important part of the visit.
Hamid Asghar said such an agreement could provide a stronger foundation for expanding commercial ties between the two countries.
If completed, the agreement could support greater trade and investment and give businesses a clearer framework for future cooperation.
The ambassador also expressed hope that the visit would create opportunities for employment. In particular, he highlighted the potential to connect Pakistani businesses and skilled professionals with emerging African markets.
For now, the Rwanda Pakistan Business Forum is set to provide a platform for companies from both countries to explore new commercial relationships.
Ultimately, the September 23–25 meetings will test how effectively businesses can turn growing interest in Pakistan-Rwanda relations into concrete trade, investment and joint-venture opportunities.
