Islamabad, Pakistan (CU)_ According to a press statement issued by the Pakistan Ministry of Commerce, it was made clear that there has been no change in Pakistan’s stance towards trade with India. There are 57 trade missions in 46 countries under the management of the Ministry of Commerce, which includes the Minister (Trade and Investment) post in the Indian capital of New Delhi.
Although it has been in existence for more than two decades, the position of Minister (Trade and Investment) in New Delhi is completely unrelated to the operationalization of trade with India or otherwise in the current setting. Therefore, the appointment of the Minister (Trade and Investment) in New Delhi cannot be considered in the context of any potential easing of trade barriers with India. According to Indian media outlets, Pakistan had taken a u-turn and would strive to restore relations with India.
The ongoing selection cycle for Trade and Investment Officers (TIOs), including New Delhi, began in December 2021, and the final recommendations of the Interview Board were delivered to the Prime Minister’s Office on April 1, 2022, which was during the previous administration. The current government has granted final authorization to the previous administration’s proposals for the appointment of 15 TIOs.
Previously, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, former foreign minister and vice chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, stated that Shehbaz Sharif had chosen to restore commerce with India and that the government should reconsider its decision. While addressing the media, Shah Mahmood stated, “It has come to our notice that Shehbaz Sharif’s government has decided to resume trade with India and he has deployed 15 officers to the Pakistani Embassy in India. We had opposed the resumption of trade with India after the discussion in the cabinet at that time.”
