Ashraf Ansari
THIS scribe is cur
rently visiting Czech
Republic. This country is located in Central Europe and is member of the European Community. It is flanked by Germany, Austria and Poland. Czech Republic takes pride in its developed infrastructure and industry. Ambassador Mohammad Khalid Jamali heads Pakistan mission in Czech Republic.
The embassy in the capital Prague is well located. Its building is impressive and well maintained. Interior decor of the embassy reflects Pakistan ‘s history and culture. Ambassador Mohammad Khalid Jamali answers questions posed to him by Pakistan Observer.
Q: What is the current level of cooperation between Czech Republic and Pakistan?
A: Czech Republic offers a good market to Pakistan’ s rice, textiles, leather and sports items, surgical equipment and certain other things. There are possibilities to boost imports from Pakistan.
Pakistan can buy more industrial products from Czech Republic. There are also chances of joint ventures.
Q: What are the main areas where Pakistani and Czech investors can join hands?
A: Automobile and avion sectors are quite advanced in Czech Republic. Pakistan and Czech Republic have reached understanding on setting up an automobile production unit in Pakistan in collaboration with a Czech included consortium.
Q: Can Pakistan learn from Czech experience and practices to promote tourism?
A: Tourism is very important component of Czech culture. This country attracts millions of foreign tourists every year. Domestic tourism is also rooted in the Czech culture. Necessary facilities are available to the tourists. Pakistan has very rich potential to develop tourism. Yes, Pakistan can learn from Czech experiences.
Q: Are you taking some initiatives to upgrade relations between Czech Republic and Pakistan?
A: I have been very recently posted here as ambassador. I am developing rapport with the Czech government, Parliament, Czech businesses and industry as well as Pakistani students who are studying in the Czech universities.
The friends of Pakistan group in the Czech parliament is active to strengthen relations between Pakistan and Czech Republic.
I am working on the proposal to set up a joint chamber of commerce and industry of the two countries. I am taking measures to support Pakistani students here. I believe that Pakistani students should be encouraged to take up courses in science and technology sectors in the Czech Universities.
