The world leading French enterprises are keen to heavily invest in energy, agriculture, infrastructure, defence and digital technology sectors in Pakistan. A delegation of Pakistan France Business Council expressed this interest here on Tuesday during a meeting with Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Reform Ahsan Iqbal at Planning Commission. French Ambassador to Pakistan Martine Dorance was leading the delegation.
The French business delegation is visiting Islamabad and Karachi to explore future investment opportunities. Speaking on the occasion, Ahsan Iqbal welcomed the French businessmen and apprised them that China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has created new and favourable opportunities for investment in different sectors. He said that French companies should invest in Pakistan's robust industrial sector and bring in new technologies.
"It will help add value on different levels of production processes and increase production in general. Pakistan has a huge potential to generate quality exports if right and focused investments are made," the minister added. He highlighted different efforts undertaken by the government to promote export of Pakistani products. He said the government had provided a favourable environment to attract foreign direct investment during the last four years. Moreover, the CPEC has revitalised the export sector by promoting linkages and connectivity in the whole region.
He said the government has introduced economic reforms coupled with peace and stability. "Such efforts have resulted in cutting down 50 per cent of our deficit and helped the GDP grow to 0.5 per cent, while foreign reserves multiplied to the highest level and stock exchange also constantly thrived," he revealed. He said the recent political and economic stability has restored the trust of foreign investors and it attracted heavy investments from the leading business companies. "Entire world is expressing its interest to reap benefits of the CPEC," he added. Iqbal said that the world has turned into a global village where changes in any part affect others. There is a strong need to initiate joint efforts for combating climate change, war against terrorism and other challenges, he added.
He said that Pakistan has rendered huge sacrifices in war against terror. "Now we should jointly fight against terrorism and regional prejudices to promote economy as an alternative for bringing sustainability and peace in the world," he added.
On this occasion, President of Pakistan-France Business Council Thierry Pflimlin said that economic reforms have resulted in increased investment opportunities in Pakistan. He said that French companies are interested to invest in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, defence and digital technology sectors. He said, "We are aware of the changes in region and commend Pakistan's efforts in combating terrorism." He further said that CPEC has enhanced business and investment opportunities in Pakistan for France and other European countries. Everyone wants to benefit from new business opportunities which are being offered under the CPEC framework, he added.
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