Staff Reporter
Karachi: A high-level delegation from the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire recently visited Karachi to attend the Sustainable Tourism Forum and Expo, jointly organised by the International Center for Cultural Diplomacy (ICCD) and the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), underscoring growing engagement between the two countries.
During the visit, members of the Ivorian delegation toured various parts of the city, gaining firsthand exposure to Karachi’s cultural diversity, heritage and urban life. The delegation also visited the Quaid-e-Azam Flagstaff, where they paid tribute to Pakistan’s founding father and reflected on the country’s historical legacy.
The delegation was hosted at a dinner reception by the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire in Karachi, Fazal Karim Dadabhoy. Discussions focused on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in trade, tourism and people-to-people exchanges.
Speaking on the occasion, the honorary consul said that Pakistan–Côte d’Ivoire relations were steadily expanding, marked by increasing interaction between the peoples of both countries. He noted that bilateral trade currently stands at around $200 million, while stressing that substantial untapped potential exists to further enhance economic and commercial ties.
The visiting delegates expressed appreciation for Karachi’s hospitality, local cuisine, traditional parathas and tea, and vibrant cultural life. They also highlighted similarities in traditions and values shared by the peoples of Pakistan and Côte d’Ivoire.
Earlier, the delegation met officials at the Honorary Consulate, where they were briefed on ongoing efforts to promote bilateral friendship, cultural exchange and economic cooperation. The visitors commended the consulate’s role in strengthening diplomatic and people-to-people linkages.
As a gesture of goodwill, the honorary consul presented the delegation with Sindh’s traditional Ajrak, while the visitors planted a tree at the consulate premises, symbolising enduring friendship, cooperation and a shared commitment to sustainability.
Observers said the visit reflected growing warmth in Pakistan–Côte d’Ivoire relations and highlighted Karachi’s emerging role as a hub for cultural diplomacy and international engagement.
