Tokyo (25 June, 2014): A TDAP/JICA Business Seminar in collaboration with the Embassy was held. More than 100 representatives of Japanese entrepreneurs participated in the Seminar. Ambassador Farukh Amil (فاروق عامل) in his welcome address highlighted the history of Pakistan-Japan business relations and the focused priorities of the new Government on business. He urged the Japanese companies to keep up the momentum created by their active participation in EXPO 2013. He said Pakistan offered immense opportunities for business and investment. Although there were many areas where investment could be made but he specifically stressed the energy and infrastructure sectors because of the fast developing N-11 economy, Pakistan required more regional connectivity and electricity for its emerging industrial and commercial needs. In this context the Ambassador highlighted the Government’s top priority for the energy sector.
The Ambassador reiterated that Pakistan offered many opportunities for investors such as a youthful population, lower labour costs, and educated workforce. Referring to the meeting of the two Prime Ministers in New York, the Ambassador underlined the need to reinvigorate the mutually agreed agenda of enhancing bilateral relations in all fields including the trade and business.
Mr. Shimizu JICA Consultant to TDAP informed the participants that the current delegation visit will not only raise awareness about Pakistan and its market, but will result in arousing enough interest amongst Japanese entrepreneurs to culminate in business ventures with the members of the visiting delegation.
Mr. Katagiri Ex GM Sumitomo Corporation welcomed the large number of Japanese companies which attended the event. He informed that the Government led by Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif had steadily carried out structural changes gaining support from the IMF which was a healthy sign towards economic stability. He shared his optimism towards all such activities which encouraged the business community from both countries to engage in closer communication.
Mr. Fukuda Director JICA informed the audience that the Government of Pakistan has been pursuing a business friendly investment policy. He explained that Pakistan has potential for foreign investment due to its geographic location, trained work force and general economic outlook.
The Commercial Counsellor spoke about the potential of Pakistan relating to its large population, mainly the English speaking youth. He also emphasized on the geographic and strategic location of Pakistan. He informed that the Japanese companies could benefit not only by sourcing goods and services from Pakistan but also by doing joint ventures and exporting to the adjacent markets of Middle East and Africa.
The seminar was followed by B2B session with Japanese SMEs.
