Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has called for greater investment by Saudi based companies in Pakistan, particularly in sectors including blockchain, technology, energy, mining and minerals. The minister highlighted the investment opportunities available to international and regional companies as Pakistan continues efforts to strengthen economic activity and attract private sector participation.
Aurangzeb made the remarks during a meeting with Jamal Al Kishi, Middle East and Africa Regional CEO of Deutsche Bank, in London. During the discussion, the finance minister outlined opportunities for investors to participate in Pakistan’s economy and emphasized the potential for stronger business engagement between Pakistani companies and businesses based in the Middle East.
The finance minister said Pakistan is seeking to attract Saudi based multinational companies across a range of sectors. These include infrastructure, oil and gas, utilities, mining, technology and blockchain. The government is also encouraging greater participation from the private sector as part of efforts to expand investment activity and strengthen the country’s economic base.
The focus on Saudi investment comes as Pakistan seeks to deepen economic and commercial relations with companies in the region. Aurangzeb highlighted sectors where Saudi based businesses could potentially participate and contribute capital, expertise and business partnerships. The government’s approach includes both traditional sectors such as energy and infrastructure and emerging areas such as technology and blockchain.
During the meeting, Aurangzeb also discussed Pakistan’s strategy to diversify its external financing sources. He emphasized the importance of strengthening engagement with international capital markets and financial institutions while expanding access to different sources of external financing. Diversification is being pursued alongside ongoing economic reforms and efforts to improve the country’s fiscal position.
The finance minister said ongoing economic reforms were creating additional fiscal space and highlighted the need to expand access to various external financing channels. Stronger relationships with international financial institutions and private investors can support these efforts while providing additional avenues for investment and financial market development.
Jamal Al Kishi reaffirmed Deutsche Bank’s long term commitment to Pakistan during the meeting. He said the bank was interested in expanding its corporate and investment banking services in the country, indicating continued interest in supporting business activity and financial sector engagement in Pakistan.
Al Kishi also expressed interest in increasing Deutsche Bank’s exposure to Pakistan and supporting stronger business and investment links between Pakistan and companies operating in the Middle East, particularly Saudi Arabia. Greater engagement between financial institutions and regional businesses could help create additional opportunities for investment and commercial cooperation.
Aurangzeb welcomed Deutsche Bank’s continued engagement with Pakistan and emphasized the importance of stronger cooperation with international financial institutions and private sector investors. He said such cooperation would help Pakistan attract investment, develop its financial markets and support long term economic growth. The government’s continued focus on Saudi based companies, international financial institutions and emerging sectors reflects its broader effort to increase investment and strengthen external economic partnerships.
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