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EU-Pakistan Business Forum to Boost Economic Cooperation in May
The first-ever EU-Pakistan Business Forum kicks off in Islamabad on May 14-15, fostering trade and investment. Key sectors, top policymakers, and investors will take center stage.
ND
by News Desk
2025-03-25
EU-Pakistan Business Forum to Boost Economic Cooperation in May

The first-ever EU-Pakistan Business Forum will be held in Islamabad from May 14-15, aiming to enhance economic cooperation, trade, and investment opportunities between the two partners.

The announcement was made jointly by the Pakistan government and the European Union (EU) delegation, with officials highlighting the strategic importance of the forum in fostering long-term business collaboration.

EU: Pakistan’s Largest Trade Partner

The EU is Pakistan’s largest export market, making this forum a key platform for expanding economic partnerships. Additionally, the EU is the world’s largest foreign investor, accounting for 42% of outward Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) globally.

Earlier this month, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with the EU, welcoming the business forum as a significant step in this direction.

“With a rapidly growing market of over 240 million people, competitive labour costs, strategic geographical access to Central and South Asia, and preferential trade access to the EU, Pakistan offers immense business opportunities,” the joint statement read.

Key Participants & Agenda

The forum will bring together:

  • Pakistan’s top policymakers, including the prime minister, finance minister, and commerce minister
  • European and Pakistani business leaders and CEOs
  • Financial institutions such as the European Investment Bank
  • Investors and industry stakeholders

During the two-day event, Pakistan will showcase its potential, innovation, and best practices in key sectors, including:
✅ Agribusiness
✅ Energy & renewables
✅ Green logistics
✅ Pharmaceuticals
✅ IT & technology
✅ Textiles

Strengthening Business Partnerships

EU Ambassador Dr. Riina Kionka emphasized that European companies see Pakistan as a growing business destination.

“This forum serves as a vital platform to strengthen collaboration between European and Pakistani businesses, deepen bilateral trade, and explore new avenues for economic partnership,” she stated.

The event will also mark the launch of the EU-Pakistan Business Network, which will connect 300+ European companies operating in Pakistan.

Besides Business-to-Business (B2B) and Business-to-Government (B2G) meetings, the forum will feature exhibitions, discussions, and networking opportunities to attract new investments.

Pakistan’s Global Economic Strategy

The EU-Pakistan Business Forum aligns with Pakistan’s goal of expanding trade and investment opportunities globally. With the EU’s support through initiatives like Global Gateway, Pakistan aims to attract sustainable investment in critical industries.

“The forum marks a crucial step in reinforcing economic ties between Pakistan and the EU in the spirit of ‘Stronger Together,’ paving the way for enhanced collaboration and mutual prosperity,” the statement concluded.
Tagged:

Investment

EconomicGrowth

TradeRelations

BusinessForum

EUPakistan
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