In pursuance of the pro investment approach and to promote potential investment opportunities, Government of the Punjab organized a two day seminar at Pearl Continental Hotel, Lahore. The first phase of this event was held on November 6, 2015 in which over 250 foreign delegates participated. Top leadership of prominent companies from China, Turkey, UK and Switzerland attended.
Honorable Chief Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif attended the event. While addressing the audience, he stated that this seminar is one of the biggest international seminars held in Pakistan and hoped that it will yield concrete results. Chief Minister also said that the political and military leadership of Pakistan is at the same page and security situation has become considerably better. He said that development is essential for progression and incorporation of new practices and modern global trends will put Pakistan well on its way towards economic stability and prosperity.
The honorable Governor of Punjab Mr. Malik Muhammad Rajwana also attended and chaired the second session. Speaking at the occasion, Mr Rajwana said “I take this event to be a celebration of one of the most important equalizer of all times – Foreign Direct Investment. A well thought-out FDI strategy has the potential to do so much more than simply invest in and utilize local resources. It can have a multiplier effect on the home economy.”
He further stated that he is very pleased that the conference is taking place in Lahore and hoped that it will be a milestone in creating a new era of Lahore’s rise to becoming a center for investment, innovation, invention and entrepreneurship.
Minister for Communications and Works, Minister for Industries as well as Governor State Bank of Pakistan also attended and spoke at the event. Additionally, chairmen and presidents of top foreign and local companies also addressed the audience and shared their experiences of working in Pakistan. Top officials from the federal and provincial governments also participated in the event.
The event was conducted in three sessions which included panel discussions, presentations showcasing doable projects with government priority as well as interactive sessions between private companies and the Government of Punjab. Major departments namely SECP, FBR, Mines & Minerals, Energy, Punjab Industrial Estate and BOI set up their stalls to facilitate potential investors and answer queries.
The event has been a huge success with major participation by the international business community and diplomats. The Chief Minister expressed his gratitude and stated that “my investors are my masters and I will roll out a red carpet for each one of them”