SIALKOT, Thursday, May 22, 2025 (WNP): Romania’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Dan Stoenescu, on Thursday inaugurated the Sialkot regional office of the Pakistan-Romania Business Council (PRBC), marking a significant milestone in efforts to enhance bilateral trade and economic cooperation.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by key stakeholders including Sohail Shamim Firpo, Chairman of PRBC; Atif Farooqi, Advisor and Chief Operating Officer; Ahmad Ikram Lone, President of PRBC North Chapter; and Tahir Nadeem, who will lead the newly established regional office.

Speaking at the event, PRBC COO Atif Farooqi emphasized the importance of expanding the council’s outreach to industrial hubs like Sialkot. “This office will play a vital role in promoting bilateral trade and investment, particularly in Sialkot’s renowned sectors of surgical instruments and sports goods,” he noted.

Ambassador Stoenescu also held meetings with senior members of the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), including Senior Vice President Waseem Shahbaz. The discussions focused on exploring avenues for deeper commercial engagement between Romania and Pakistan.

“The opening of this regional office is a concrete step toward enhancing economic diplomacy and tapping into Sialkot’s globally recognized manufacturing expertise,” the Romanian envoy said.

Later, Ambassador Stoenescu met with Deputy Commissioner Sialkot, Saba Asghar Ali, to discuss ways of strengthening bilateral cooperation and fostering mutual understanding at the regional level. The officials discussed potential partnerships in various sectors, emphasizing the need for stronger institutional linkages.

The ambassador’s visit underscores growing interest from both sides in fortifying economic ties and exploring sector-specific collaborations, particularly in exports, manufacturing, and logistics.

In a related diplomatic development, President Asif Ali Zardari extended warm congratulations to Nicusor-Daniel Dan on his recent election as President of Romania. In a message released by the President’s Office, Zardari reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to deepening friendly relations with Romania and wished the Romanian people continued peace, stability, and prosperity.