Commerce Minister arrives in Baghdad for crucial bilateral trade talks

Baghdad, Iraq: Jam Kamal, Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Commerce, arrived in Baghdad on Monday to lead the Pakistani delegation at the 9th Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) session, marking a significant step toward strengthening bilateral relations between Pakistan and Iraq.

This session is the first to be held since the last JMC meeting in Islamabad in 2001, signalling a renewed focus on collaboration between the two countries, according to a press release issued by the Ministry of Commerce.

Upon his arrival at Baghdad International Airport, Jam Kamal was warmly welcomed by Iraq’s Minister for Housing and Construction, Bangen Rekani, who extended a cordial reception. The Pakistani delegation included Dr. Kazim Niaz, Secretary of the Ministry of Economic Affairs; Mr. Muhammad Zeeshan Ahmed, Ambassador of Pakistan to Iraq; and other officials from the Pakistan Embassy in Iraq.

In a brief meeting at the airport, the two ministers discussed a range of topics of mutual interest, including the enhancement of trade ties, boosting economic cooperation, and fostering closer collaboration in key sectors such as infrastructure and regional development. Both sides expressed optimism about revitalising bilateral engagements and addressing shared challenges.

The 9th JMC session, scheduled to take place during Jam Kamal’s visit, is expected to pave the way for new opportunities for economic collaboration and further strengthen the longstanding relationship between the two nations.