On Saturday, 23 September 2023, Ambassador Azhar attended the Opening Ceremony of Handicraft Expo at Centaurus Mall, Islamabad as one of the chief guests. The Handicrafts Association of Pakistan, in collaboration with the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ICCI), organized the expo featuring handicrafts from various regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK). A large number of diplomats and dignitaries were also present. The event received good coverage by print and electronic media in Islamabad.
Young promising artisans across KPK participated in the event showcasing their crafts. In her remarks at the event, Chairperson Handicrafts Association of Pakistan Miss Maryam Iqbal said that the handicrafts industry has been a neglected industry whereas it has a lot of potential. She remarked that a developed handicrafts sector in Pakistan could contribute to GDP; investment opportunities; enhanced foreign exchange earnings; cultural preservation, entrepreneurial development, and alleviation of poverty.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Azhar thanked ICCI and Handicrafts Association of Pakistan for inviting him to the event. He stated that this event was important to showcase handicraft industries in Pakistan. Globally, the industry was almost at USD 800 billion per year. The High Commissioner suggested that Pakistan needed to create the eco-system of its handicraft industry. He added that ASEAN region has a population base of 660 million. The top two countries in handicrafts from ASEAN are Indonesia and Thailand and Malaysia is following suit. He was of the view that Pakistan could promote its blue ceramics, carpet, camel skin lamps for the global market. In this regard, he urged Pakistan should look at the ASEAN market, a market of 660 million population, where businesses can enjoy a free trade arrangement. For example if business entity goes to Kuala Lumpur or Jakarta, they have access to all the other ASEAN market. He commended the role played by ICCI and Handicrafts Association of Pakistan in organising such an event.
