Federal Minister for Finance Muhammad Aurangzeb has called upon UAE businesses to increase investment activity in Pakistan, underscoring the country’s competitive advantages that make it an attractive destination for investors.
According to a statement released by the Ministry of Finance, Aurangzeb conducted meetings with foreign investors, including Abdulla Bin Lahej, Chairman of Ayana Holding, and Mohammed Hilal Bin Tarraf Al Mansoori, Chairman of Nad Al Shiba Holding, in Dubai.
The discussions focused on enhancing investment activity between the UAE and Pakistan by bolstering existing economic partnerships and exploring diversification into sectors such as information technology, renewable energy, transport and logistics, infrastructure, and real estate development.
During these meetings, Minister Aurangzeb emphasized Pakistan’s competitive advantages, positioning the country as an ideal destination for investors seeking high returns and sustainable growth. He also highlighted the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) in providing comprehensive support services to investors, including market research, regulatory guidance, investment facilitation, and post-investment support.
In separate interactions with senior officials of Mashreq Bank and First Abu Dhabi Bank in Dubai, Aurangzeb discussed strengthening financial and economic cooperation. He urged bankers to reconsider their willingness to arrange financing for Pakistan, citing significant improvements in the country’s economic fundamentals.
Aurangzeb’s efforts to attract foreign investment extend beyond the UAE. During his recent visit to Washington for the World Bank-IMF Spring meetings, he invited Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom (UK) to invest in Pakistan.
With the establishment of the SIFC, Pakistan has intensified engagements with bilateral partners, including GCC countries, the UK, USA, and EU, inviting them to invest in key sectors such as agriculture, IT, and mining.
Despite these efforts, Pakistan has faced challenges in attracting international investors. State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) data reveals a decline in foreign direct investment (FDI), standing at $820.6 million during the first eight months of the ongoing fiscal year, down by 17.1% year-on-year. This contrasts sharply with the FDI levels observed in 2007, reaching $5.6 billion for the 12-month period.
