‘SIFC is our Redline,’ Declares Federal Minister
In a strong declaration, Information Minister Ataullah Tarar affirmed the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), a collaborative civil-military initiative aimed at fostering foreign investment, as the “redline” for the federal government. The minister’s pronouncement underscores the strategic importance of the SIFC in the government’s efforts to buttress Pakistan’s economic infrastructure and attract overseas investments.
The assertion from Tarar arrives amidst criticism from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government over perceived biases, highlighted by the omission of Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur from a pivotal SIFC summit. Despite such controversies, the Information Minister, alongside Commerce Minister Jam Kamal, elucidated the pivotal role of the SIFC during a press briefing. They critiqued those opposing the council’s initiatives, indirectly accusing them of jeopardizing the country’s economic prospects through detrimental actions and narratives.
“You declared a person your redline, our redline is SIFC,” Tarar remarked, pointing towards the council’s successful administration and its crucial role in averting economic default. The initiative, championed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief General Asim Muneer, has been pivotal in orchestrating a conducive environment for foreign investors, thereby securing the economic lifeline of Pakistan.
“SIFC is the lifeline of Pakistan. The government is providing a favorable environment for foreign investors,” emphasized Tarar, highlighting the unwavering support of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This affinity is predicated on a series of diplomatic successes, with the UAE manifesting its confidence through the allocation of $10 billion for further investments in Pakistan.
The information minister proudly reflected on the government’s diplomatic endeavors, which have significantly contributed to portraying Pakistan as a viable and attractive locus for international investment. He outlined how each government delegation, when abroad, primarily focuses on advocating for investments rather than seeking loans or grants.
This commitment was evidently showcased during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to the UAE, where he engaged with President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The visit, aimed at bolstering investment in Pakistan, was a testament to the government’s enduring efforts to rejuvenate the national economy through strategic partnerships and foreign investments.
Commerce Minister Jam Kamal lauded the visit as “historic,” underscoring the government’s dedication to enhancing economic development and enticing foreign companies to invest in Pakistan. The visit not only served to strengthen bilateral ties but also facilitated discussions on a multitude of prospective projects, especially in the energy sector, further solidifying the UAE’s role as a key investor in Pakistan’s economic landscape.
In conclusion, both ministers reemphasized the pivotal role of the business community, both domestic and international, in driving Pakistan’s economic resurgence. As the government lays the groundwork for an influx of UAE investments, there is a sense of optimism about the positive impact these initiatives will have on the country’s economic stability and development.
