Pakistan, Egypt move to boost trade with 250-firm white list

Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Ishaq Dar said on Sunday that Pakistan would provide Egypt with a list of 250 business enterprises, selected through a transparent mechanism for inclusion in Egypt's "white list," as both countries decided to enhance bilateral relations.

In a joint presser alongside Egyptian Foreign Minister Dr Badr Ahmed Mohamed Abdelatty, Dar said another list of 250 additional firms will be prepared within six months, bringing the total to 500.

Dar, who also holds the portfolio of foreign affairs, said that both countries have also decided to establish a Pakistan–Egypt Business Council, a move aimed at giving institutional shape to bilateral trade cooperation.

To address rising visa-related complaints, he said, both governments have finalised a new facilitation mechanism to streamline travel and business movement between the two countries.

The DPM said the political consultations between the two sides will be held in Pakistan during the first quarter of 2026, adding that the forum will hold its first meeting in Cairo in the second quarter of 2026.

He added that, for the first time since 2010, Pakistan and Egypt have agreed to convene the Joint Ministerial Commission in 2026.

Egypt's foreign minister expressed deep condolences and solidarity with Pakistan over the recent terrorist attacks in the country, reaffirming that Cairo stands firmly with Islamabad in its fight against terrorism.

This is a developing story and is being updated with further details.