Pakistan is positioning itself as a key investment destination as it hosts the inaugural EU-Pakistan Business Forum in Islamabad, held under the European Union’s Global Gateway initiative. The high-profile event brought together government officials and business leaders, with more than 600 business-to-business meetings across key sectors including textiles, agriculture, IT, renewable energy, and pharmaceuticals.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that the EU remains Pakistan’s largest trading partner, stressing the importance of strengthening economic ties despite ongoing regional tensions. He reaffirmed confidence in Pakistan’s economic stability, even as global oil prices hover near 110 dollars per barrel due to unrest in the Middle East.
A major outcome of the forum is the launch of the EU-Pakistan Business Network, bringing together over 300 European companies to explore investment and partnership opportunities. Sharif also directed authorities to expand special economic zones, aiming to boost exports, attract foreign investment, and accelerate industrial growth.
The forum signals Pakistan’s intent to deepen economic cooperation with Europe while navigating a challenging global environment, positioning trade and investment as central pillars of its economic strategy.
