Minister eyes stronger ties with Denmark

Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, met with Mikko Keto, Global CEO of FLSmidth, a leading global provider of engineering and equipment for the mining and cement industries, on Tuesday. The meeting was also attended by the Danish Ambassador, Jakob Linulf, senior officials from FLSmidth, and the Finance Division, according to a press release issued by the finance ministry.

The finance minister emphasised Pakistan's strategic shift towards an export-led growth model, focusing on sustainable development across various sectors. He highlighted the government's ongoing reforms in the energy and power sectors, privatisation of state-owned enterprises, and restructuring of the tax system and public expenditure. Aurangzeb reiterated the government's commitment to creating a business-friendly environment, stressing that private sector-led growth is vital for economic progress.

"We are determined to pursue our change agenda despite resistance from those favouring the status quo. The private sector must lead, and our role is to ensure maximum facilitation," he said.

Mikko Keto expressed appreciation for the government's support and outlined FLSmidth's growing presence in Pakistan's mining sector, which has led to increased local value addition, higher tax contributions, and job creation. Keto emphasised FLSmidth's interest in further investment through local partnerships.

The meeting concluded with both parties expressing a strong commitment to enhancing economic ties between Pakistan and Denmark, particularly in the mining and cement industries.