RIYADH — “Pakistan is fast emerging as a top investment destinations in the world”, said Naeem Zamindar during the Pakistan Investment Seminar 2018 held at Riyadh Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday. Eng. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Governor of Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA) was the chief guest on the occasion. Pakistan Ambassador Khan Hasham Bin Saddique, Saudi Ambassador Nawaf Almaliki and Eng. Ahmed bin Suleiman Alrajhi, chairman of Riyadh Chamber, were also in attendance.

The seminar was organized by the Pakistan Board of Investment, Council of Saudi Chambers, Riyadh Chamber and Embassy of Pakistan in Riyadh. Purpose of the seminar was to showcase the investment opportunities available in Pakistan under an attractive investment regime laced with incentives and guarantees. More than 150 Saudi Arabian companies participated in the event.

The Pakistan envoy lauded the Saudi government decision to appoint Commercial Counselor to Pakistan. He thanked the Saudi companies for their enthusiastic participation in seminar and informed them about the potential on offer by Pakistan in terms of access to the Chinese and Central Asian markets in the coming days. He apprised that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are increasingly collaborating to devise frameworks and streamline rules in various areas. All these factors render Pakistan as a natural and attractive choice for investment by Saudi businessmen.

The participants were apprised in detail by the Chairman Board of Investment about the growth trajectories of the country as acknowledged by the world-repute institutions and its growing attractiveness as the world’s favorite destination of investment. He said under the guidance of the Pakistan Premier Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, the Board of Investment is reforming to create a business & environment friendly environment. China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the resulting role of Pakistan as an economic and connectivity hub were also discussed in detail. The Saudi investors were also given detailed information about potential of various sectors in Pakistan and the specific projects available as immediate and long-term investment opportunities.

SAGIA Governor said Pakistan was like their second home. He reiterated the resolve of Saudi Arabia to enhance the level of mutual investments between the two brother countries. He acknowledged that Pakistan has a great scope of collaboration with Saudi Arabia especially regarding the opportunities arising as a result of transformation drive of the Kingdom. Chairman, Riyadh Chamber also appreciated the long established relations between the Pakistan and Saudi Arabia and urged greater economic cooperation.

During the interactive session, reputable business groups exhibited their keen interest in starting business in Pakistan. They were invited to visit Pakistan and assured of full support of the government. — SG