Pakistani pharmaceutical delegation holds talks with Ethiopian counterparts

Addis Ababa, April 29(ENA)-- A 15-member delegation of Pakistan's pharmaceutical industries held discussion on Tuesday with their Ethiopian counterparts on ways of enhancing bilateral business ties.

Delegation Head, Dr. Safdar A. Sohail said on the occasion that the delegation's visit to Ethiopia was aimed at exploring opportunities of trade and investment between the business people of the two countries.

Sohail, who is also Commercial Counselor Pakistani High Commission based in Nairobi, said Pakistani pharmaceutical industries were keen to engage in the export and joint venture contract manufacturing of drugs in Ethiopia.

Secretary General of the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce, Hussein Shibeshi said on his part that the Ethiopian government has taken commendable initiatives in revising the investment code with a view to creating conducive investment atmosphere and attract foreign entrepreneurs.

The pharmaceutical sector in Ethiopia was not well developed but fast growing, he said, adding Pakistani drug manufacturers would have enormous opportunities to export and invest in the sector.

Planning and drug information head with the Drug Administration and Control Authority, Abraham Gebregiorgis said though the number of pharmaceutical industries and importers has shown a marked growth over the years, they have not yet been able to meet the growing demands.

Ethiopia, a country with a large population size and significant health problems, provides a good opportunity for Pakistani pharmaceutical investment, he said, adding the expansion of the sector would help improve the health service in the country.

Members of the delegation held one-to-one consultations with Ethiopian counterparts. They were also expected to meet officials of the Ministry of Health on Tuesday afternoon.

Some of the companies displayed samples of their products on the occasion.

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