Signaling new era of investment and economic cooperation between Pakistan & European Union
The first-ever two-day EU-Pakistan Business Forum commenced in Islamabad on Tuesday, marking a significant step toward strengthening economic ties between European Union and Pakistan while unlocking new avenues for investment, innovation, and sustainable growth.
Organized jointly by the European Union and the Government of Pakistan, the high-level forum brought together around 1,000 participants, including senior policymakers, business leaders, investors, and financial institutions from both sides.
One could see among the distinguished guests ambassadors of the European countries including France, Germany, Italy, Austria, Poland, Bulgaria, Greece, Sweden, The Netherlands, Denmark, Hungary, Ireland, Romania, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Belgium and others.
Not only ambassadors and diplomats of the European countries but also representatives of some of the top EU companies were there to explore new areas of parentship in business, trade and investment.
As the world’s largest single market and Pakistan’s top export destination, the EU’s engagement offers a major opportunity to convert strong trade relations into increased investment flows, technology partnerships, and long-term industrial development.
In his welcome address, EU Ambassador to Pakistan Raimundas Karobolis emphasized that the forum aims to deepen and diversify already robust economic ties.
“The purpose of the forum is not just to celebrate our trade relations, but to transform them into long-term investments that drive shared prosperity,” he said, adding that green and sustainable economic development would remain a
key focus.
Federal Minister for Finance Muhammad Aurangzeb highlighted Pakistan’s improving macroeconomic indicators and ongoing structural reforms under the theme “Pakistan Means Business.”
He underscored achievements such as fast-track debt servicing, tariff reforms, improved performance of distribution companies, and broader market stability measures.
Aurangzeb also pointed to initiatives promoting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), electric vehicles, digital financial inclusion, the issuance of digital wallets to vulnerable segments. Stressing Pakistan’s commitment to peace, he noted that economic growth and regional stability go hand in hand.
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan, in his keynote address, highlighted Pakistan’s shift from a “protection” to a “productivity”-driven economy. He welcomed and invited the European investors to take advantage of Pakistan’s business-friendly environment, improved infrastructure, and connectivity.
A major highlight of the forum was the launch of the EU-Pakistan Business Network, a platform bringing together over 300 European companies operating in Pakistan. The initiative is expected to serve as a unified voice for EU businesses, strengthen engagement with policymakers, and facilitate market entry for new investors.
Participants also explored opportunities under the EU’s Global Gateway programme, which aims to mobilize €400 billion globally between 2021 and 2027. Experts including Peteris Ustubs, Thouraya Triki, and Hans Bogaard shared insights on financing mechanisms and sector-specific opportunities.
The forum’s sessions are focusing on key sectors such as agribusiness, digital innovation, fintech, green logistics, sustainable textiles, and responsible mining.
Over the two-day event, more than 600 business-to-business (B2B) meetings are scheduled, reflecting strong interest from both European and Pakistani companies in forging joint ventures and partnerships. Several financial programmes and agreements are also expected to be signed. With a combined economic outreach of over 700 million people, the forum provides a structured platform for dialogue, collaboration, and deal-making aimed at elevating EU-Pakistan economic cooperation to new heights.
