Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar extended an invitation to Chinese entrepreneurs, urging them to capitalize on Pakistan's burgeoning investment landscape.
Addressing a gathering of prominent Chinese and Pakistani businessmen, he underscored the competitive advantage Pakistan offers, particularly in labor-intensive sectors such as agriculture, textiles, mining, and information technology.
"The government's economic reforms agenda presents an array of lucrative opportunities for Chinese investors," remarked Dar. "With our strategic location at the crossroads of Central Asia, Southeast, and the Middle East, Pakistan serves as an ideal gateway for export-oriented industries."
Highlighting specific initiatives, Dar stressed the expedited construction of special economic zones and the provision of enticing incentives for industrial establishment.
"We have identified 13 key sectors ripe for investment, offering substantial potential for Chinese and Pakistani entrepreneurs to collaborate," he affirmed.
Dar emphasized the importance of value addition and market diversification, urging Chinese companies to leverage Pakistan's preferential access to major global economies. "Through joint ventures and strategic investments, Chinese businesses can tap into a market boasting over one and a half billion consumers," he elaborated.
Moreover, Dar assured the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in Pakistan, reaffirming the government's commitment to addressing security concerns promptly. He also underscored the role of the newly formed Special Investment Facilitation Council, aimed at streamlining investment procedures and providing comprehensive support to foreign investors.
In his welcome address, Pakistan's Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi, reiterated the embassy's commitment to facilitating bilateral investment. "We have identified 13 sectors ripe for investment, aimed at enhancing Pakistan's productive capacity and fostering export-oriented industries," he remarked.
The Pakistan-China Business Roundtable Conference witnessed a notable turnout of Chinese companies, eager to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan. Representatives from prominent associations and organisations, including the China Association for the Promotion of International Agriculture Cooperation and the China National Association for the Grain Sector, were present, reflecting the growing interest in bilateral business cooperation.