UK delegation discusses business opportunities

By Our Correspondent
January 14, 2025
UK’s Director General for Strategy and Investment Ceri Smith.— gov.uk/File
UK’s Director General for Strategy and Investment Ceri Smith.— gov.uk/File 

Islamabad: A delegation led by Ceri Smith (the UK’s Director General for Strategy and Investment) discussed inward investment opportunities in Pakistan. The delegation included Sarah Mooney (Deputy High Commissioner Karachi/Trade Director Pakistan), Hamed Kamal (Deputy Director Trade), Rehan Shahid (Sr Trade Policy Adviser - Punjab) and Victoria Patricia (Chief of Staff to DG Investment).

The meeting chaired by Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan (President IDA) brought together key members of the business community from Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Among them are Usman Shauqat, (President RCCI), Umar Hussain Malik, Chaudhry Naseer, Haroon Naseer, Rizwan Uppal.

Ceri Smith provided an insightful overview of incentives available for overseas investors and elaborated on mechanisms to facilitate inward investment from Pakistani stakeholders. The discussion emphasised the role of the UK’s Department for Business and Trade in fostering trade and investment ties, showcasing the extensive support available to potential investors.

The interactive session also featured dialogue with local stakeholders, who highlighted the immense potential of Pakistan’s growing industries. They highlighted the importance of enhanced trade partnerships to unlock mutual benefits and create avenues for sustainable growth.

Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan reiterated the critical role of international investment in driving economic progress. Strengthening trade relations and fostering investments with global partners like the UK is essential to unlocking Pakistan’s economic potential. He also emphasised the importance of the British High Commission in connecting overseas British Pakistanis with business opportunities in Pakistan to facilitate investment and foreign direct investment (FDI). He also said that Today’s meeting reflects our shared commitment to creating a dynamic and inclusive investment ecosystem. The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides reaffirming their dedication to deepening collaboration and advancing mutual economic interests.