High-Level Meeting Between Pakistan and ASEAN Delegation
Federal Board of Investment Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh recently hosted a high-level meeting with a joint delegation of ASEAN ambassadors and high commissioners at the Board of Investment office in Islamabad. This significant gathering underscored the importance of economic collaboration between Pakistan and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries.
The delegation included several prominent officials, such as:
- HE Mr Rongvudhi Virabutr, Ambassador of Thailand and Chair of the ASEAN Committee in Islamabad (ACI)
- HE Lt Gen (retd) Chandra Warsenanto Sukotjo, Ambassador of Indonesia
- HE Dato’ Muhammad Azhar Mazlan, High Commissioner of Malaysia
- HE Mr. Pham Ahn Tuan, Ambassador of Vietnam
- HE Dr Emmanuel R Fernandez, Ambassador of the Philippines
- HE Mr Wunna Han, Ambassador of Myanmar
- HE Col (retd) Pengiran Haji Kamal Bashah Pengiran Haji Ahmad, High Commissioner of Brunei
The meeting was attended by the Secretary Board of Investment and other senior officials, highlighting the significance Pakistan places on strengthening economic ties with ASEAN nations.
Strategic Importance of ASEAN for Pakistan
During the discussions, Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh emphasized the strategic importance of ASEAN countries as key partners for Pakistan. He briefed the delegation on the role of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and the Facilitation Centre in promoting investment opportunities across the country. The minister highlighted that these zones provide a structured and investor-friendly environment, aimed at fostering sustainable industrial growth, attracting foreign direct investment, and generating employment opportunities.
The minister also outlined the various sectors where Pakistan is offering incentives to investors, including IT, infrastructure, textile, and mining. These initiatives are designed to enhance investment opportunities and stimulate economic growth.
Areas of Interest and Collaboration
All ASEAN countries expressed keen interest in sectors such as tourism, the food industry, and other emerging industries, which hold substantial potential for investment and bilateral economic collaboration. The delegates collectively acknowledged the presence of significant investment opportunities in Pakistan for ASEAN countries and underscored their willingness to explore potential collaborations in multiple sectors.
Discussions also focused on strengthening trade and investment ties, improving connectivity, and facilitating smoother investment procedures to ensure a mutually beneficial partnership. The ASEAN representatives welcomed Pakistan’s investor-friendly policies and highlighted their interest in participating in development initiatives that could promote regional integration and growth.
Government’s Focus on Export-Led Growth
Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh reiterated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, the Government of Pakistan is focused on an export-led growth economy. The goal is to create a sustainable business environment for investors and to enhance Pakistan’s role in regional trade networks.
Jamil Ahmad Qureshi, Secretary of the Board of Investment, stated that both the Board of Investment (BOI) and the SIFC are actively working to facilitate and promote investment opportunities across Pakistan. Their efforts aim to ensure a smooth and investor-friendly environment.
Commitment to Bilateral Cooperation
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to further strengthen bilateral cooperation, foster regional development, and promote long-term partnerships that support economic growth and stability. Both sides expressed optimism about the opportunities ahead and agreed to continue dialogue and engagement to implement actionable initiatives for investment and connectivity in the region.
This high-level meeting marks a significant step forward in deepening economic ties between Pakistan and ASEAN countries. With a focus on mutual benefits and sustainable growth, the collaboration promises to unlock new opportunities for investment and regional integration.