Investments
ISLAMABAD: On Wednesday, Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani stated that Pakistan anticipates significant investment from Saudi Arabia and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations. Anticipated investment from Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries will stabilize Pakistan’s economy.
Furthermore, Jilani’s remarks coincide with reports suggesting a potential visit by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman to Pakistan next month.
In his first interaction with beat reporters since assuming office on August 18, 2023, the caretaker foreign minister neither confirmed nor denied the anticipated visit by the Saudi Crown Prince. The Crown Prince is likely to make a brief stopover in Islamabad on September 10, 2023, enroute to the G20 summit in India’s capital, New Delhi, scheduled for September 9-10, 2023.
Pakistan’s Strong Affinity with Saudi Arabia
Caretaker Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani affirmed Pakistan’s readiness to welcome high-level visits from Saudi Arabia. Responding to questions regarding the potential arrival of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman on a brief visit to Pakistan, Jilani neither confirmed nor denied the reported visit set for September 10, where meetings with Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir are anticipated.
In addition, Jilani emphasized Pakistan’s strong bond with Saudi Arabia, describing it as unique and multifaceted. He highlighted the significance of Pakistan’s relations with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including the UAE and Qatar, emphasizing their extreme importance.
Expecting substantial investments from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and other GCC nations, Jilani revealed the preparation of a comprehensive roadmap under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) initiative. Focus areas encompass agriculture, livestock, energy, renewable energy, minerals, and mining.
Jilani also addressed questions about Pakistan’s general elections, foreign relations, and terrorism issues, emphasizing adherence to constitutional timelines and the importance of peaceful, stable Afghanistan for regional trade. Lastly, he underscored Pakistan’s commitment to enhance relations with various countries, including China, the United States, the European Union, and regional neighbors like Afghanistan and Iran.
