Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations (DGR) in Sharjah, joined Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan in Dubai; Ahmed Al Qaseer, CEO of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq); and Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, at a significant event aimed at strengthening economic ties between the UAE and Pakistan. The bilateral trade between the two nations has already surpassed Dh25.7 billion, prompting both countries to explore further opportunities for economic collaboration. The UAE stands as Pakistan’s third-largest trading partner.
The Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) organized the Sharjah-Pakistan Business Roundtable in partnership with the Pakistan Business Council in Sharjah (PBC Sharjah), attracting over 200 investors and entrepreneurs. The event was designed to delve into investment prospects across various sectors such as manufacturing, trade, green-tech, and the creative industries, while also informing Pakistani businesses and investors about the numerous opportunities and support services available in the emirate. Currently, over 11,500 Pakistani companies are registered within Sharjah’s mainland and dedicated Free Zones.
During the event, Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi emphasized the strong bond between Sharjah and Pakistan, highlighting the emirate’s supportive legislation, advanced infrastructure, and strategic location as key factors for businesses looking to expand and innovate. He also acknowledged the significant contribution of the 1.8 million Pakistani residents in the UAE, who play a crucial role in various sectors.
Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, underscored the deep-rooted relationship between Sharjah and Pakistan, built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment to prosperity. He noted the strong economic bridges that have been established over the years, reflecting the confidence Pakistani enterprises have in Sharjah as a growth hub.
Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan, highlighted the close and friendly relations between Pakistan and the UAE, emphasizing the strong desire to further expand political, trade, and economic ties. The roundtable featured insightful discussions from key leaders, including Saif Al Suwaidi, Director of Sharjah Publishing City Freezone (SPC Free Zone); Marwan Alichla, Director of Investment Promotion and Support at Invest in Sharjah; Amir Hassan, Founder and Chairman of Diyar Group; and Hiba Al Marzouqi, Head of Business Councils and Common Committees Section at Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI).
Saif Al Suwaidi focused on the creative industries, particularly publishing, noting that over 1,500 Pakistani companies are registered through SPC Free Zone, with 800 being publishers. Marwan Alichla outlined Invest in Sharjah’s role in facilitating investment, highlighting the emirate’s diverse and progressive investment landscape. Amir Hassan praised the supportive ecosystem in Sharjah, noting its strategic advantages for businesses looking to expand beyond the UAE.
Hiba Al Marzouqi emphasized the chamber’s role in connecting investors with the right opportunities, highlighting the strong network created by SCCI. The event also underscored the importance of business councils, particularly the newly established Pakistani Business Council in Sharjah, in fostering partnerships and growth between nations.
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