GUJRANWALA, Wednesday, May 21, 2025 (WNP): Romanian Ambassador to Pakistan Dr. Dan Stoenescu on Wednesday inaugurated the Pakistan-Romania Growth Window at GIFT University, Gujranwala in a significant development to deepen Pakistan-Romania relations. The initiative, powered by the Pakistan Romania Business Council (PRBC), to strengthen long-term collaboration between the two countries across key sectors.
Conceived as a dynamic platform for multi-sector engagement, the Growth Window seeks to foster partnerships in education, research, socio-economic development, cultural exchange, and community services. By leveraging institutional strengths and promoting people-to-people connections, the initiative aspires to drive sustainable development and mutual growth.
Speaking at the ceremony, PRBC Advisor and COO Atif Farooqi remarked, “The Pakistan-Romania Growth Window is not just a partnership platform — it’s a shared vision for a prosperous future, enhancing collaboration and mutual understanding between our two nations.”
The event brought together notable figures from the bilateral business community, including PRBC Chairman Sohail Shamim Firpo and North Chapter President Ahmad Ikram Lone, both of whom have played key roles in promoting Pakistan-Romania economic engagement.
Focus on SMEs, regional trade
In addition to the inauguration, Ambassador Stoenescu visited the Gujranwala Business Centre (GBC), where he met with Chairman Ahmad Ikram Lone to explore trade and economic opportunities, particularly in the SME (Small and Medium Enterprise) sector. Gujranwala, known as a vibrant industrial hub, was highlighted as a focal point for bilateral cooperation in manufacturing, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
“We see immense potential in Gujranwala’s SME ecosystem,” Ambassador Stoenescu noted during the meeting. “Romanian businesses are keen to explore joint ventures and partnerships that can fuel innovation and growth on both sides.”
PRBC Chairman Firpo and COO Farooqi also joined the discussions, reaffirming the council’s commitment to deepening economic ties and promoting regional linkages.
Strategic engagement with commerce, govt leadership
The Romanian envoy also held a key meeting with Rana Mohammad Sadique, President of the Gujranwala Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI). Both sides discussed enhancing business-to-business interactions and exploring opportunities for trade expansion, technology transfer, and investment facilitation.
“The GCCI is eager to serve as a bridge between Romanian and Pakistani enterprises,” President Sadique said, welcoming the ambassador’s proactive outreach to Pakistan’s business community.
Ambassador Stoenescu later met with Gujranwala Division Commissioner Syed Naveed Haider Shirazi. Their discussions revolved around trade facilitation and creating an enabling environment for Romanian businesses looking to invest or collaborate with Pakistani counterparts.
Atif Farooqi credited the North Chapter President of PRBC, Ahmad Ikram Lone, for his consistent efforts in nurturing Pakistan-Romania ties. “Lone’s contributions have been pivotal in establishing Gujranwala as a gateway for Romania to engage with Pakistan’s SME sector,” he said.
A vision for shared prosperity
The series of engagements signals a robust and expanding partnership between Pakistan and Romania. With the formal launch of the Growth Window and the strengthening of trade dialogues, both countries appear poised to unlock new avenues of cooperation in business, academia, and social development.
“The inauguration of the Growth Window marks the beginning of a new era in bilateral relations,” said Dr. Stoenescu. “Romania looks forward to working closely with Pakistani partners to achieve shared objectives and build a more connected, prosperous future.”
