Law and order situation: 'Belgian investors reluctant to invest in Pakistan'

Ambassador of Belgium, Hans Christian Kint, said that Pakistan is business conducive country but unfortunately due to the terrorist activities the foreign investors in general and Belgian investors in particular are reluctant to investment. Addressing the members of Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, he said that Belgium is the 5th EU buyer of Pakistani products.
In the past Belgium contributed about 10 million euros for flood rehabilitation activities in Pakistan during the preceding year, he added. Belgium assisted the Punjab government for the development of education institutions; in this regard more than 100 schools were upgraded. While responding to a question about the GSP plus status to Pakistan, he said that there is certain criteria prescribed by the EU, in this regard it is mandatory to fulfil the said conditions.
However, the Belgium government will support the Pakistan's case in this respect. He stressed the need that Pakistani High Commission in Brussels should take measures to promote the Pakistani products. Hans Christian Kint pointed out that not even a single Belgian company is in operation in Pakistan. It is the prime responsibility of the Pakistani government to emphasise on the positive image building of Pakistan.
He further added that embassy of Belgium was established in early 1950's, since then the embassy secretariat is committed to facilitate the Pakistani businessmen and investors. He quoted that Pakistan, Belgium Karachi Business Forum is in operation since 1997 and is playing vital role for the enhancement of bilateral trade between two countries.
While briefing about bilateral trade, he said for the last many years the balance of trade is in favour of Pakistan, however during the preceding year the balance of trade is in favour of Belgium. Whereby Belgium exported 70 percent chemical products, about 60 percent machinery and parts etc last year. Pakistan exported about 72 percent of textile products and about 9 percent of food products. During his welcome address, Chairman Ad hoc Management Committee Muhammad Naseer said that, FCCI is a keen supporter of strengthening economic relations with other countries.