Pakistan has developed a strategy to bridge the external financial gap. This year, a plan has been devised to enhance foreign direct investment (FDI).
The country expects major investment in sectors like energy, aviation, minerals, and agriculture, among others.
According to the Ministry of Finance, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar have shown interest in investing in Pakistan, and FDI in these sectors will increase from January next year.
The Islamabad International Airport is also likely to be outsourced this month, while efforts are also underway to privatise the national airline, PIA. Arab companies will invest to run airports and seaports.
Following the Free Trade Agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council, work is underway for investment. The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) is also trying to increase investment in the country.
According to sources, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has sought a briefing on the role of the SIFC. The International Monetary Fund will be informed about the council's measures to increase tax collection and subsidies.
Consultations are also underway with the International Finance Corporation to hand over the management control of power distribution companies to the private sector. France, Germany, and Korea have also expressed interest in administrative control agreements for Discos.
