BIT Negotiations In Final Stage: Timothy Kane
Published: September 07, 2026 | Time: 04:40 PM
FAISALABAD, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News) – (7th Sep, 2026) High Commissioner of Australia in Pakistan, Mr Timothy Kane said that negotiations regarding the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) are in their final stage. This development is expected to boost investment and trade between Australia and Pakistan.
Addressing a meeting in Faisalabad’s Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI), he praised the entrepreneurial spirit of Pakistanis but noted that they should enhance the quality of their surplus goods to secure a larger share in Australian imports.
Kane highlighted agriculture as the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, mentioning Australia’s existing support for South Asian countries, including Pakistan, in areas such as animal genetics, water management, and crop improvement.
He further stated that at least 40% of the faculty at the University of Agriculture has direct or indirect ties to Australia. Despite efforts, agricultural product imports from Australia to Pakistan have increased significantly over the last decade.
The High Commissioner expressed Australia’s interest in importing mangoes and citrus from Pakistan but noted that quality issues are currently hindering immediate imports. He emphasized the need for Pakistan to improve its product standards to tap into this market.
Earlier, FCCI President Farooq Yousaf Sheikh welcomed Mr. Kane and introduced Faisalabad and the FCCI. He highlighted Faisalabad’s status as Pakistan’s industrial hub, contributing 57% to total textile exports. While historically known for textiles, he noted the diversification of Faisalabad’s industries into pharmaceuticals, dairy, auto, food, confectionery, IT, and more.
Sheik also mentioned Pakistan’s exports: textile, clothing, home textiles, finished goods, rice, leather, surgical products, carpets, and food items.
Arif Ihsan Malik, Ahmad Afzal Awan, and Mian Muhammad Tayyab participated in a question-and-answer session, while Naveed Akram Sheikh, Senior Vice President FCCI, offered a vote of thanks. Later, Farooq Yousaf Sheikh presented an FCCI shield to the Australian High Commissioner.
Mr. Kane recorded his impressions in the FCCI Visitor’s Book, and the event was attended by Azhar Shah (Director Trade and Education, Australian High Commission), Engr. Asim Munir (Vice President FCCI), Mian Muhammad Saeed, Shahid Majeed, Ashraf Mughal, Muhammad Azhar Chaudhary, Mian Gulzar Ahmad, and Zahid Butt.
