RAWALPINDI -  The launching ceremony of Rawal International Expo, organised by Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI), was held here on Thursday at Ayub National Park Rawalpindi.

“The five-day industrial exhibition, RAWAL International EXPO 2018 will start on April 11 and will continue till April 15. Industrial products, garments, leather products, gem and jewellery, home appliances and furniture will be displayed on the occasion. Food court, children playing area and auto show will also be organized to attract and entertain families and children,” disclosed President RCCI Zahid Latif Khan while addressing the ceremony.

Minister of State for Information Maryam Aurangzeb, MNA Malik Abrar, ambassadors of different countries, Chairman UBG Iftekhar Malik, Senior Vice President Nasir Mirza, Vice President Khalid Farooq Qazi, group leaders Suhail Altaf, SM Naseem, former presidents, Chairman Fair & Exhibition Committee Malik Shahid Saleem, Vice Chairman Khurshid Berlas, members of the executive committee, exhibitors and chamber members were present on the occasion.

Addressing the ceremony, chief guest Maryam Aurangzeb said that China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has brought a historical investment in power sector and infrastructure in Pakistan and this will serve as strong bondage between China and Pakistan. She highlighted the key initiatives of government taken under the leadership of former President Nawaz Sharif.

She said that we have completed 55 years old projects like Lawari Tunnel. She said, “Government is delivering as we did in load hedding and security situation”, and pledged that we will complete all projects when we enter into elections this year as promised during 2013.

She appreciated the RCCI role in promoting business activities through exhibitions. She said continuation of policies is required in the country. “It’s our government which generated more than 11000 MW electricity and added to the national grid. In 2013 Pakistan was about to default but our government took strong economic measures and now Pakistan has been included in emerging markets.”

Giving details about the Rawal International Expo 2018, Zahid Latif Khan said that RCCI has been organizing exhibitions in the country and outside the country regularly. Last year, RCCI organized Rawal Expo 2017, which proved to be a great success. RCCI received lot of appreciation and based on the feedback we are going to organize a 5-day Rawal Expo 2018 from April 11-15, he added. He said that during five-day exhibition, industrial products will be displayed and buyers will have the facility to book the orders on the spot. Last year, more than 15 international companies including those from China, Thailand, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Nepal and Sri Lanka displayed their products in the expo. This year we are expecting 100 plus international companies be a part of our expo. Cultural evenings will also be held during exhibition, he added. City administration, RWMC, CCB and trade organizations had assured full cooperation in this regard, said RCCI President.

President RCCI said that Rawal EXPO 2018 was aiming to increase business activities along with providing entertainment to the masses. He asked government to provide a dedicated space.

Chinese DCM Lijian Zhao also spoke on the occasion and said that China had invested massively in power and infrastructure that resulted in improved electricity and better road network in Pakistan and said that his office will provide full assistance to RCCI in organizing business conference in China.