ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif on Wednesday said Pakistan’s strategic location makes it a market having potential to become Asia’s premier trade, energy and transport corridor.
In a meeting with Roelof A. Joosten, CEO, Royal Friesland Campina (Netherlands) at the PM House, the premier highlighted efforts of incumbent government for facilitation of trade.
“Our government is extensively working on various infrastructures, energy and communication projects to facilitate trade and investment in diverse sectors,” the Prime Minister said.
The Prime Minister said the country’s 60 percent population was under 30 years of age comprising labour force to highly skilled professionals.
He informed the delegation that the government had recently extended subsidy on fertilisers to facilitate the farmers.
He mentioned that laws were promulgated for Special Economic Zones to meet global challenges of competitiveness and also to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
“We are lucky to have a land with four seasons, abundant rich natural resources, extensive irrigation network, favourable climate, year round crop production, trained work force and a vibrant economic outlook,” he asserted.
Nawaz Sharif said his government had focused on economic reforms to increase investors’ confidence as the country’s various indicators of growing and stable economy were being acknowledged by international organisations.
On the other hand, the visiting Roelof A. Joosten said that his company invested in Pakistan because Central Asia was very important for business strategy and Pakistan offered the opportunity to invest in the region.
He also mentioned an increase in the dispensable income of middle class with urbanisation on the rise in the country.
“There is a growing need for high-quality dairy products in Pakistan. That is why we are bringing in our technology, capabilities and our experiences to develop these products for Pakistani market by working together with local farmer community,” the CEO said.
He added that Pakistan was becoming an investment-friendly destination due to improved security environment, rapidly expanding quality infrastructure and marked reduction in energy shortages.
The visiting delegation comprised Hussain Dawood, Ghias Khan President and CEO of Engro Corporation, Piet Hilarides COO, Hein Schumacher CFO and Hans Laarakker, Director Royal Friesland Campina
