Pakistan has enormous potential to progress: British HC

"Pakistan has tremendous resources, well educated human capital and has enormous potential to progress despite facing myriad problems." This was stated by Francis Campbell, British Deputy High Commissioner by Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The UK diplomat said that efforts are being made to increase bilateral trade between Pakistan and UK to £ 2.5 billion by 2015. UK intends to spend $1 billion to assist Pakistan to promote education. He added that there are over 100 British companies operating in Pakistan and their success stories are encouraging other British companies to invest in Pakistan.
Campbell said misperception about Pakistan is a hurdle but the reality is that those who have experienced doing business here know that Pakistan is a different country from what it is perceived. He added that UK DHC and KCCI can work together to attract trade and investment. He informed that a delegation from Birmingham is due soon to talk about trade and investment.
Siraj Kassam Teli, Chairman BMG and former President-KCCI said Karachi is Pakistan, is the economic and industrial hub of the country, and thus restoration of peace in the city is vital for economic growth. He disclosed that the business community led by KCCI spearheaded the imperative need to control the mayhem and bring peace in the city. The recent events manifest this approach of KCCI leadership. He further said British companies' investment in Pakistan is playing significant role in its economic development. He called for more employment generation and hoped that with the passage of time more such investment would be forthcoming.
Muhammad Saeed Shafiq, President KCCI, said Pakistan's economy is facing daunting challenges like war against terror and being the frontline ally of allied forces. He reiterated KCCI members not to believe in aid but trade for the social economic development of Pakistan. KCCI believes that developed countries should reciprocate the contribution of Pakistan to address the economic challenges through shifting its support from conventional aid to market access, investment, technology transfer, education and training, scientific research and infrastructure development.
Talat Mahmood Senior Vice President KCCI highlighted the services rendered by KCCI and its leadership for the economic development of the city and pledged that it will maintain its track record and make every effort to serve the business community and to enhance trade and investment in the country. M. Zubair Motiwala, Haroon Farooki Anjum Nisar, Vice Chairmen BMG, Majyd Aziz, A.Q Khalil Ex-Presidents KCCI, Junaid Esmail Makda, Vice President KCCI and MC members were also present on the occasion.-PR