ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mahmood Qureshi said that Iran has lifted restrictions on import of kinnow (citrus) from Pakistan which had been in place since 2012.
Pakistan has witnessed a decline in kinnow exports this year due to to the outbreak of the novel coronavirus. While the onset of COVID-19 is driving up demand for fresh and processed citrus products around the world, Pakistani citrus exporters are unable to capitalize on these market conditions.
In January, Pakistani citrus exporters said that a target of 3.5 million tons on kinnow fruit was set to be exported in the winter season, however, the restrictions on land and sea routes have resulted decline in exports. Markets where demand is still strong, like the Middle East and China, are becoming more expensive to supply.
The foreign minister, who arrived in Iran on an official visit, said the step was a manifestation of further solidifying of bilateral ties between the two countries. The step would be a good news for the Pakistani traders and the people linked with its cultivation in the country, he said during a visit to Pakistan House in Tehran.
During his visit, the foreign minister said Pakistan and Iran enjoyed deep fraternal ties rooted deep in religion and civilization. Qureshi said his visit would further strengthen the economic and trade ties between the two brotherly countries as there existed vast avenues to promoting bilateral trade.
The foreign minister stressed upon Pakistan missions to expedite their efforts for the economic diplomacy to enhance economic prosperity. The minister further said that Iran had not only appreciated the proposal for establishment of trade centers at Pak-Iran border but also agreed to implement it. He expressed confidence that the proposal would soon be implemented.
Qureshi said the establishment of these centers, would boost trade, besides bringing economic change in the lives of border areas residents.
