FPCCI hosts 2-day ‘Business & Investment Conference’ on sidelines of SCO ministerial moot
Chairman Senate, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani while addressing as Chief Guest the inaugural session of the two-day Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Business and Investment Conference reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to the “Shanghai spirit” and said Pakistan looked forward to building mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality, respect for diversity of civilizations and pursuit of common development.
Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, Federal Minister for Petroleum Dr Musadik Malik, Governor Sindh, Kamran Khan Tessori, Deputy Secretary General of the SCO, Mr Sohail Khan and Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of Pakistan Observer Faisal Zahid Malik also attended the SCO Business & Investment Conference along with the visiting officials and representatives from the SCO member states.
The two-day event hosted by the Federal of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) witnessed productive discussions, debates and exchange of ideas among the representatives of the SCO countries as well as the Pakistani business and trade officials.
Besides, the SCO member states’ representatives, a large number of ambassadors, diplomats, representatives of chambers of commerce and industry, business councils and government officials attended the two-day event that was themed on the rich potential the Pakistani market offers to the international investors.
The host of the event, President of the FPCCI Atif Ikram Sheikh termed the conference a milestone in bridging the trade and investment gaps among the member countries. We discussed all important aspects of the current issues relating with trade among the member countries of the SCO that constitute almost half of the world’s population.
In his address, Yousuf Raza Gilani highlighted the immense potential that exists for trade, investment, and joint ventures in areas such as energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and technology. We seek to strengthen regional cooperation within the SCO by fostering economic ties with our partner nations. “Our strategic location, coupled with our rich natural resources and skilled workforce, makes us an attractive destination for foreign investment, Chairman Senate observed,” he said.
Jam Kamal Khan commended the FPCCI’s role in organizing the conference and highlighted the importance of fostering economic ties among SCO countries through people-to-people connections and emphasized the historical and cultural links that strengthen the foundation for collaboration.
Different countries had put up their stalls reflecting the traditional items, such as jewelry, handicrafts, food products and cultural products to attract the guests.
Earlier, in his welcome address, President of the FPCCI, Atif Ikram Sheikh said the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, with its vast expanse across Eurasia, represents a powerhouse of economic opportunity—home to nearly half the world’s population and boasting a combined GDP that is continually on the rise.
Pakistan, as a proud and active member of the SCO, stands ready to play its role in enhancing bilateral and multilateral trade among the member states.
Our strategic location, coupled with our growing infrastructure, makes Pakistan a critical hub for trade and commerce in the region, he said adding the SCO was not just as an organization but as a platform to unleash the collective potential of its members.
Atif Ikram Sheikh pointed out that the presence of our esteemed Dignitaries and the delegates from the business communities of the SCO member was a testament to the importance we all place on strengthening economic ties, said Atif Ikram Sheikh. The conference he said was more than just a dialogue—it’s a commitment to action, to drive integration of economic activities, facilitate cross-border investments, and create business synergies that transcend borders.
Briefing the guests about the FPCCI, he said the FPCCI as the apex body of the business community in Pakistan, was fully committed to playing a central role in this effort. We are not only dedicated to facilitating businesses, promoting investment, and opening new avenues for trade but also to actively participating in the activation and strengthening of the SCO’s economic objectives.
The FPCCI President particularly mentioned the role and contributions of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) for creating and ensuring a business-friendly environment here in Pakistan.
The SIFC’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment have been pivotal in creating an investor-friendly environment, attracting not only foreign investment but also enhancing Pakistan’s strategic position in the region, he said. The forum’s relentless efforts to streamline policies, remove bureaucratic hurdles, and create a conducive environment for investors have significantly enhanced Pakistan’s standing as an attractive investment destination, said the FPCCI president. On the concluding day, Saturday, the guests enjoyed a Music Gala Dinner and attended a “Qawwali Night” and enjoyed the cultural richness and sweet melodies of the Sufi (Mystic) Poetry.
