Foreign Investment in Pakistan to Cross $ 5 Bln Mark
By Shoaib Jabbar 'Pakistan Times' Special Correspondent

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz on Saturday said that Pakistan has become a destination of choice for foreign investment which is expected to cross $ 5 billion this year, highest in the country’s history.

He was talking to Dr. Yousef Al-Zalzala, Chairman of Kuwait Gulf Link Petroleum Company, who called on him here at the Prime Minister House today. The Prime Minister said that the sharp upsurge in foreign investment witnessed by the country was due to the successful structural reforms, high growth and macroeconomic stability, achieved by the country.

He said that consistency, continuity and transparency of policies have given confidence to the private sector to plan for future, which has contributed to fast growth and development of the country.

The Prime Minister said that acting in line with the requirements of the free market economy, the government is facilitating the private sector to play pro-active role while providing necessary regulatory framework and enabling environment for the business community.

He said Pakistan’s economy is standing on robust foundations and the country presents a lucrative market for investors, with a growing middle class and economy growing at 6-7 percent over the last three years.

Yousef Zalzala appreciated the investment friendly policies of the government.

He said that his company is already in business in Pakistan and, encouraged by the investment friendly environment is planning to make further investment.

The meeting was attended among others by Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources Amanullah Khan Jadoon and Minister for Privatization and Investment Zahid Hamid.●