ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Australia concluded Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) negotiations here on Thursday. Federal Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh led the Pakistani delegation in the talks.
Both delegations engaged in positive, professional, and constructive discussions in good faith covering the initial articles of the prospective modernised version of the treaty, said a statement issued here. The deliberations were marked by a spirit of cooperation and mutual understanding, reflecting the shared commitment of both sides to further strengthen bilateral investment relations.
At the close of the session, the delegations formally signed the Agreed Minutes, recording the significant progress achieved during this round of negotiations. Both sides reaffirmed their intention to continue the dialogue with a view to concluding a modern, balanced, and forward-looking treaty framework that will promote investment flows while safeguarding the legitimate interests of both countries.
Federal Minister for Investment, Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, while concluding the negotiations, appreciated the constructive engagement between Pakistan and Australia and emphasised the government’s commitment to ensuring a modern investment climate aligned with global best practices. He highlighted that Pakistan is entering a new phase of investment policy reforms, aimed at promoting transparency, investor confidence, and long-term economic cooperation with global partners.
The Minister further underscored that strong bilateral engagements such as this round of BIT negotiations reflect Pakistan’s determination to foster sustainable investment partnerships, increase investor protection, and expand opportunities in key sectors, including energy, mining, technology, agriculture, and industrial development. He stated that under the government’s strategic direction, Pakistan is committed to diversifying investment avenues and collaborating with international partners to unlock the country’s economic potential.
The minister commended the contributions of the negotiating teams and expressed confidence that the modernisation of the Pakistan–Australia BIT will pave the way for enhanced investment flows, deeper commercial cooperation, and a mutually beneficial framework supporting long-term economic stability for both countries.
The Board of Investment, under the leadership of Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, remains fully committed to promoting investment, strengthening bilateral partnerships, and supporting both domestic and foreign investors for a prosperous Pakistan.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
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