PM assures US investors of improved regulatory framework through SIFC

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday assured the US-Pakistan Business Council delegation that Pakistan is open for new foreign investments and highlighted the government’s efforts to streamline the regulatory environment, enhance transparency, and eliminate bureaucratic hurdles through the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).

The prime minister extended a warm welcome to a high-level delegation from the council, a part of the US Chamber of Commerce, during a meeting held here and called for stronger economic ties between the two nations, a PM’s Office news release said.

The delegation included Charles Freeman, Senior Vice President Asia at the US Chamber, Esperanza Gomez, President of the US-Pakistan Business Council, and representatives from major American firms including Abbott and Apple.

Shehbaz lauded the council’s pivotal role in enhancing economic ties between Pakistan and the United States. He described the council as a vital platform that promotes partnership, streamlines business connections and boosts investment in Pakistan.

Highlighting the presence of over 80 American companies in Pakistan, the premier stated, “This reflects that Pakistan is a safe and profitable destination for business and i nvestment.”

He noted that closer trade and investment relations could yield mutual benefits, including enhanced welfare, business profits, and shared prosperity. Underscoring Pakistan’s status as one of the largest importers of American cotton, PM Sharif stressed the mutually beneficial nature of the bilateral partnership. He expressed a strong desire to expand collaboration with US stakeholders, especially in the IT sector. Members of the visiting delegation expressed keen interest in investing across various sectors in Pakistan. “Pakistan offers an attractive investment environment,” they said, emphasising their intention to fully capitalise on the available opportunities.