ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday said the government wanted the private sector to take the lead in strengthening the national economy as he chaired a high-level meeting on the country’s economic situation and foreign investment.
The meeting reviewed overall economic trends, ongoing and planned development projects and strategies to attract more foreign direct investment.
It took place as Islamabad pursues an International Monetary Fund-backed economic reform program and seeks to restore investor confidence through policy stability and transparency.
“The private sector will play a key role in planning economic activities and its inclusion will be ensured,” Sharif was quoted as saying in a statement released by his office after the meeting.
He directed relevant ministries and departments to provide all necessary facilities to international investors, adding that the government would leverage investment opportunities to improve public welfare and create jobs.
“Recent positive economic trends reflect foreign investors’ growing confidence in Pakistan’s economy,” he said. “Through transparency, formulation of economic policies in line with international standards and their swift implementation, Pakistan will be made an attractive investment destination in the region.”
The prime minister also said the government’s ongoing economic and structural reforms had “given the economy a new direction,” putting the country “on the path to development.”
The meeting also reviewed progress in energy, infrastructure, information technology and industrial projects.
Attendees included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and several key ministers.
