During this online session, the CEO of the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment, expressed and talked about the existing relations of both countries and called this event a great opportunity.
ACCI’s CEO explained all the opportunities and facilities which could lead to better trading relations between both countries. He, furthermore, named all the items and products of Afghanistan which could have a huge demand in Sri Lankan markets.
He asserted that the air corridors and Cha Bahar port are significant for transit between both countries. He added that these transit ways pave the way for better trading between businesspeople of both countries and pointed out that these transit ways are useful for the exports and imports of both countries.
The CEO of Sri Lankan Chamber of Commerce Mr. Manjulad Salwa said that this MoU is a good opportunity for both countries to develop and expand their trading. He, furthermore, said that he hopes to bring entrepreneurs close to each other through this MoU and to expand trade between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka.
He said that Sri Lanka would import the necessary items from Afghanistan which they used to import from the neighbor countries of Afghanistan.
He welcomed the two types of transportations suggested by Afghanistan and added that the President and Prime minister of Sri Lanka supports the MoU signed by Afghanistan and Sri Lanka for the purpose of expanding commercial relations.
The ambassador of Afghanistan for Colombo Mr. Ashraf Haidari attended this meeting and said that Afghanistan is located in the heart of Asia and can be a connecting point for the countries of the region including Sri Lanka.
He also added that the location of Sri Lanka as significant which can play an important role in south Asian countries and in Indian sea. Moreover, Sri Lanka’s products such as: coconuts, fruit, and vegetables can meet the need of both countries. He added that Sri Lanka can make a good profit from the products of Afghanistan such as: saffron, rugs, fresh and dry fruit, precious stones, and handicrafts in its markets.
MoU of sending business delegations, organizing exhibitions, conducting exhibitions, and expanding relations of both chambers was signed at the end of this online meeting by the CEOs of both chambers.
Mr. Hashimi said, “Whenever we are able to reduce the cost of transit, we can compete on regional and international levels.” He insisted that there are enough Afghani products to be exported abroad; however, getting these products to international markets is a challenging issue. In order to get Afghani products to international markets, ACCI is committed to grasping the support of international organizations and governmental agencies. He added that the ACCI is planning to use a new guideline of exports to the neighbor countries and all trade partners.
e added that Afghanistan’s Chamber of Commerce and Investment commends and supports the establishment of the Afghanistan’s Chambers Federation. Based on law, the Afghanistan’s Chamber of Commerce and Investment has 5 members at ACF. The activities and responsibilities of the Federation should never conflict with the existing rules and regulations in the sector. On the contrary, this Federation should work as a coordinating body for the chambers and should facilitate the executive activities of all chambers.
