AKIPRESS.COM - Ambassador of the Republic of Tajikistan Sherali S Jononov has assured steps will be taken to strengthen trade by removing barriers that hamper the exchange of goods between Pakistan and Tajikistan.

He was speaking to journalists during his visit to Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KPCCI) on Friday, Tribune reports. 

According to Jononov, the current trade volume between the two countries is US$89 million.

“This should be increased to US$500 million,” he said.

The ambassador said they are working on improving bilateral trade. Jononov said Tajikistan is also trying to develop a more relaxed visa regime and begin direct flights to Pakistan for the benefit of both countries.

On the occasion, traders asked the ambassador to invest in the province, particularly in the field of power generation as K-P has abundant hydropower resources. The ambassador also invited traders to participate in the trade and cultural festival to be held in Tajikistan on April 10.