On Thursday, 2^nd April 2026, Ambassador Ahmad Ali Sirohey delivered a lecture on Pakistan’s Foreign Policy towards Africa to the participants of the 39^th Senior Management Course (SMC) at the National Institute of Public Administration, Lahore. The session examined Africa’s growing strategic importance and Pakistan’s engagement within an evolving global order.

Ambassador Sirohey emphasized that Africa, with 54 member states in the United Nations and a rapidly growing youth population, is central to future global economic and political trends. He stressed the importance of deepening engagement with key regional partners such as South Africa, Nigeria, Egypt, and Ethiopia, as well as regional blocs including the African Union, ECOWAS, and the East African Community.

Ambassador Sirohey reviewed Pakistan’s Look Africa Policy, acknowledging progress in expanding diplomatic missions and increasing trade engagement. However, He pointed out persistent challenges, including weak logistics, limited banking channels, and the need for stronger institutional mechanisms to ensure effective policy execution.

The discussion also focused on economic opportunities, particularly in trade diversification and industrial collaboration. Ambassador Sirohey highlighted sectors such as textiles, pharmaceuticals, and rice exports, while advocating a shift toward co-production, SME development, and industrial zones. He underscored Africa’s potential in agriculture, energy, and the halal economy, along with opportunities in climate cooperation and critical minerals.

Ambassador Sirohey underscored that Pakistan’s path to greater global relevance is closely linked with sustained and structured engagement with Africa.

The session concluded with a Q&A session with the participants.