Islamabad: The 2nd Session of Pakistan–Bulgaria Inter-Governmental Commission (IGC)
was held in Islamabad on May 20-21, 2019. Mr. Noor Ahmed, Secretary,
Economic Affairs Division and Mrs. Liliya Ivanova, Deputy Minister of
Economy of Bulgaria led their respective delegations.
The IGC focused discussions on enhancing trade, economic cooperation in
ICT, agriculture, livestock, tourism, culture, maritime and railways
sectors. Both sides agreed to work together for promotion of bilateral
trade and investment. Bulgarian side agreed to facilitate the export of
Pakistani citrus fruit, mango, rice, raw cotton, dates, fruits and marble
to Bulgaria and other countries of Eastern Europe, while Pakistan would
facilitate export of Bulgarian products in Pakistan and third countries.
Both sides also agreed to encourage their businessmen for participation in
trade fairs & exhibition and to endeavor for establishment of joint
ventures in automotive, engineering and food processing.
On the conclusion of the IGC, an Agreement on Avoidance of Double Taxation
and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to taxes on income was
also signed by the Director General, FBR and Deputy Minister of Economy,
Republic of Bulgaria. Representatives of various Ministries/ Organizations
including Commerce, Information Technology, Railways, Maritime Affairs and
National Food Security participated in the Session.
During her stay in Pakistan, Mrs. Liliya Ivanova called on the Minister of
National Food Security & Research and Advisor to the Prime Minister on
Commerce & Textile and Investment.
Mr. Noor Ahmed, Secretary, Economic Affairs Division in his concluding
remarks, expressed that both the countries will continue to strengthen
economic and trade relations in future for mutual benefit of two countries.
The Bulgarian Deputy Minister of Economy also reciprocated the spirit of
friendship, cooperation and assured that Bulgaria will enhance cooperation
with Pakistan in the identified areas.
