CM invites French investment

Eyes avenues for industrial uplift, tech transfer

LAHORE:

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has invited French investors to explore opportunities in agriculture, industrial and livestock sectors through the Punjab Innovation, Value Addition and Economic Transformation (PIVOT) initiative.

The chief minister met new French Ambassador to Pakistan Jean-Noël Poirier to explore avenues for strengthening bilateral relations, enhancing trade and investment and expanding industrial cooperation between Punjab and France.

She warmly welcomed the ambassador on his arrival in Lahore, congratulated him on assuming his new diplomatic responsibilities and appreciated his diplomatic services.

During the meeting, both sides discussed opportunities to enhance economic, commercial and investment cooperation between Pakistan and France, with a focus on developing stronger provincial-level partnerships with Punjab.

Invited French investors to explore investment opportunities in Punjab's agriculture, industrial and livestock sectors through the PIVOT initiative, she emphasised that greater engagement with French companies could open new avenues for industrial development, technology transfer and economic growth.

The ambassador invited the chief minister to visit France to explore opportunities for expanding bilateral trade and economic relations.

CM Maryam Nawaz thanked him for the invitation and expressed her interest in strengthening commercial and industrial ties between the two sides.

The meeting also focused on Pakistan's GSP+ European Union (EU) preferential trade status and its significance for the country's exports and industrial economy.

The chief minister described the arrangement as a lifeline for Pakistan's exports, particularly for Punjab's textile, garments, sports goods and leather industries, which depend heavily on access to European markets.

She stressed that France's support was important for safeguarding Pakistan's trade interests within the EU and maintaining preferential access for Pakistani products.

She said alignment with the requirements of the new GSP+ framework was essential for securing the country's export prospects.

CM Maryam Nawaz noted that the EU was Pakistan's largest trading partner, with exports to the bloc reaching $8.96 billion in 2025-26.