BOI ramps up investor outreach in UK

Federal Minister for Board of Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, during his visit to London, engaged in high-level interactions with global financial leaders and institutions, underscoring Pakistan's commitment to strengthening international investment partnerships and enhancing professional standards in the financial sector.

The meeting, hosted at the headquarters of the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI), brought together senior representatives from Pakistan's government, regulatory authorities, and banking sector. Notable participants included The Bank of Punjab President Zafar Masud, officials of the Pakistan High Commission in the UK, including Naila Israr, Muhammad Afzal and Imran Khalil, and other prominent officials and stakeholders.

The discussions focused on strengthening international financial cooperation, promoting investment flows to Pakistan, and enhancing capacity building through globally recognised professional standards and certifications. Both sides emphasised the growing importance of skills development, particularly in emerging markets, to align with evolving global financial systems and technological advancements, including artificial intelligence and digital finance.

Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed highlighted Pakistan's improving investment climate and reform-oriented policies. He reiterated the government's commitment to facilitating foreign investors, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and fostering an environment of transparency and trust – the key pillars for sustainable economic growth.

The minister noted that building trust and credibility in financial systems was essential for attracting long-term investment and creating resilient global partnerships. He emphasised that Pakistan was keen to collaborate with leading international institutions like CISI to enhance the professional capacity of its workforce and integrate with global best practices in the financial and investment sectors.

The interaction also highlighted the role of diaspora engagement and institutional linkages in advancing Pakistan's economic diplomacy.