Karachi: The Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives, Mr. Ahsan Iqbal, engaged in a significant dialogue with foreign investors at the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) to discuss Pakistan’s economic stabilization efforts. The session highlighted the government’s initiatives to create a conducive environment for investment and economic growth, with a focus on Uraan Pakistan, the 5Es National Economic Transformation Plan.
According to a statement by Press Information Department, Mr. Iqbal emphasized the government’s commitment to reforms that address investor challenges and promote sustainable growth. He lauded the contributions of foreign investors, particularly OICCI members, who have reinvested $23 billion over the past decade, helping to drive economic development in Pakistan.
Mr. Yousaf Hussain, President of OICCI, acknowledged the government’s efforts and expressed optimism about continued collaboration to strengthen Pakistan as an investment destination. He noted the importance of structural reforms and economic revival in attracting foreign investment.
M. Abdul Aleem, Secretary-General of OICCI, highlighted the necessity of policy consistency to maintain investor confidence, urging the government to engage with key stakeholders to maximize the impact of its initiatives. Foreign investors also shared their insights on enhancing the ease of doing business in the country.
The dialogue underscored the need for ongoing government-private sector collaboration to ensure sustainable economic growth. The Minister reiterated the importance of foreign direct investment, political stability, and policy continuity in achieving progress.
Mr. Iqbal announced several initiatives, including an internship program to enhance youth skills and training programs aimed at increasing exports and remittances. The government aims to double exports to $60 billion and increase remittances to the same amount within five years, while also exploring the Blue Economy’s potential, of which only 5% has been tapped.
He stressed that Pakistan’s political transition must proceed through constitutional and legal means, ensuring stability and avoiding destabilization. A working group has been established to review progress quarterly, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in moving the economy upward.