Islamabad, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has emphasized the importance of enhancing economic diplomacy to strengthen trade and investment ties with other countries. He called for concerted efforts to bolster international business connections during an online meeting with Heads of Missions to review market sounding efforts for the outsourcing of airports.
According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the meeting addressed progress made by Pakistan’s Missions Abroad in promoting the outsourcing of airports. The Secretary of Aviation noted that diplomatic efforts by Heads of Missions in countries including Turkiye, Malaysia, UAE, Qatar, France, Spain, Germany, Kuwait, the UK, and Switzerland have attracted significant interest from well-known airport operators. These operators are showing a positive interest in the bidding process for the Islamabad International Airport.
The International Finance Corporation (IFC) presented a progress review report indicating that foreign investors are keenly interested in bidding for the outsourcing of Islamabad International Airport. This level of interest is expected to result in a competitive bidding process, providing opportunities for a seamless passenger experience and improved service delivery at airports.
Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar urged the IFC to expedite and complete the required tasks within the stipulated time frame for the outsourcing of Lahore and Karachi airports. He also stressed the need for all government agencies to adhere to service delivery benchmarks to ensure a smooth experience for airport users.
The meeting underscored the government’s commitment to fostering economic diplomacy and leveraging international partnerships to enhance Pakistan’s infrastructure and economic growth.