Jamadi us Sani 20, 1428

July 6, 2007

Karachi is Houston of Pakistan ------- Mark Ellison

“The state of Texas is the largest importer as well as exporter of goods and services from and to Pakistan and this is reflective of the importance of Pakistanis in Texas. The city of Houston has over 100,000 citizens of Pakistan origin and this community is considered as an important, respected, and formidable sector.” This was stated by Mr Mark Ellison, Director Emerging Technology Programs and personal representative of Mr Rick Perry, Governor of Texas, while talking to Majyd Aziz, President, and members of Karachi Chamber Of Commerce and Industry. He was accompanied by Mr Faisal Amin, President of Texas Trade Council and Honorary Investment Counselor of Pakistan in Texas and Mr Kabir Farooqui, Regional Manager of Pakistan Software Export Board,

Mr Ellison disclosed that Texas is the leading producer of wind power equipment and there is a good possibility of providing this technology to Pakistan. He added that there is a large scope for joint collaboration in information technology, oil exploration, ports and shipping, and education projects. He agreed that graduate students could be provided extensive training in companies in Texas so that they are able to improve their skills and expertise. He also opined that Karachi is the hub of economic activities and there are ample opportunities of investment in Karachi.

Mr Faisal Amin in his remarks stated that his office is very much involved in the enhancement of bilateral trade and he is also endeavoring to attract US investment into Pakistan. He said that the Pakistani businessmen can contact him as he has direct access to the corridors of power in Texas. He added that the Governor of Texas is very much interested in encouraging more trade and investment with Pakistan.

Earlier, Majyd Aziz in his presentation briefed the delegation in detail about the workings of the Chamber. He called for more investment in information technology and oil exploration. He advocated the need for skill development program for Pakistani students and youth. He also called for changing the mindset of many Americans who have developed a negative perception of Pakistan. He said that the success of the large Pakistan-origin Houston population is proof of the hard work that they put in providing quality life to their families and for bettering the image of Pakistan.

The KCCI Chief was of the view that the Houston Port can be very much the focal point for comprehensive Pakistan-USA bilateral trade. He called for setting up of Pakistan specific warehouses and distribution points so that goods could be transported on a fast track. He proposed that Governor Rick Perry and Governor Ishrat-ul-Ibad Khan of Sindh must initiate a reciprocal tour alongwith a delegation of businessmen so that the Texas-Sindh bilateral trade and investment situation is exemplary. He applauded the thinking of the Texan Governor who is very pro-business and has provided many benefits and concessions to the business community.