Pakistan and EU Explore Business and Investment Expansion
Pakistan’s Finance Minister and the EU Ambassador discussed strengthening business ties, attracting European investment, and ensuring the continuation of GSP Plus for export growth.
ISLAMABAD, Mar 14: Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, met with EU Ambassador Dr. Riina Kionka on Friday to discuss strategies for strengthening business and investment ties between the European Union and Pakistan. The meeting focused on fostering economic collaboration and creating an enabling investment climate to attract more European businesses to Pakistan.
Dr. Kionka highlighted the presence of over 300 European companies already operating in the country and expressed confidence that many more firms could explore investment opportunities. She extended an invitation to the finance minister for a business and investment forum that the EU Mission in Pakistan plans to host in mid-May 2025 in Islamabad. The forum aims to bring European investors and Pakistani stakeholders together to explore new business ventures and investment prospects.
Senator Aurangzeb welcomed the initiative, affirming the government’s commitment to facilitating European businesses in Pakistan. He assured Dr. Kionka of full support and confirmed his participation in the event. He emphasized the government’s dedication to ensuring a business-friendly environment, including streamlining processes for the timely repatriation of dividends and profits for foreign investors.
The finance minister also appreciated the EU’s continued support for Pakistan’s economic growth, particularly through the Generalized Scheme of Preferences Plus (GSP Plus) facility. He stressed that GSP Plus has played a pivotal role in promoting Pakistan’s export-led growth and highlighted the need for proactive engagement with European capitals to secure its continuation.
Senator Aurangzeb further underscored the importance of establishing a unified business platform for European companies operating in Pakistan. He cited his recent discussions with French and Dutch businesses as an example of constructive engagement, reinforcing the government’s commitment to supporting foreign investment.
In conclusion, both leaders reaffirmed their shared vision of strengthening trade relations between Pakistan and the EU. They agreed on the necessity of creating a thriving business environment that would benefit both European investors and Pakistan’s economic landscape.
