ISLAMABAD: Minister for Information, Broadcasting and Natural Heritage Senator Pervaiz Rashid Thursday said the government's slogan of trade and not aid is indicative of its resolve to facilitate investors and businessmen in every possible manner.
Speaking at an event organized in connection with Pakistan- Finland Business Forum he said the forum which had its first session last year in Islamabad has established itself as a platform to further economic and commercial ties between the two countries
The minister expressed confidence that the initiative will continue to positively contribute towards strengthening of bilateral relations.
Pakistan and Finland enjoy cordial and friendly relations, he said adding the two countries have a tradition of cooperating with each other at international fora.
"Our bilateral trade which hovers around US$ 140 million mark has great potential for increase and all that is required is increased interaction, investments and joint ventures."
The minister said Pakistan is an investor friendly country and offers enormous opportunities in energy, information technology and communication sectors.
He hoped that the Finnish investors would take advantage of these opportunities.
He assured that the government of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was most helpful and cooperative in creating new business opportunities.
He thanked the Finnish government for its support to Pakistan during its GSP plus campaign.
It is a source of great happiness for Pakistan that its exports to the EU have increased by more than US$ 1.4 billion since it was granted this status, he added.
He said the Business Summit is an excellent initiative to promote business ties as it provides a useful platform to the businessmen from Pakistan and Finland to interact and explore business opportunities to strengthen commercial and business links.
The second Pakistan-Finland Business Summit which was held on Wednesday was great success, he noted.
The minister said, "it is heartening to see that we have a very active ambassador of Finland and enterprising people who are at the helm of affairs of the Pakistan-Finland business forum."
"Together they have the strength and the will to galvanise the available sources for mutual benefit for trade promotion between our two countries."
He was hopeful that Finland would re-open its embassy in Islamabad soon. "This single step will assist in enhancing our relationship."
Ambassador of Finland Rauli Suikkanen also spoke on the occasion and said the business summit would further open up new avenues for economic cooperation between Pakistan and Finland.
He appreciated efforts of the two sides for making the event successful.
Comments
Comments are closed for this article.