SIFC plays crucial role for Pakistan’s progress, prosperity: PM

Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday said that the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) is playing a crucial role in Pakistan’s progress and prosperity.

Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the nation would advance through hard work, stressing that there are no shortcuts to success.

The prime minister gave these remarks while chairing a meeting of the SIFC in Islamabad on Saturday.

The key figures including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti were also present there in the meeting.

Federal Minister of Interior Mohsin Naqvi, Federal Minister of Energy Owais Leghari, and the chief secretaries of all four provinces were also present.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed his gratitude to all participants, noting that significant issues had been discussed and that officials were working together effectively regarding the SIFC.

Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the collaborative efforts of provincial chief ministers, federal ministers, and military officers towards the success of the SIFC. He mentioned a recent visit to Saudi Arabia where confidence in the SIFC was reaffirmed.

He also reported that other international delegations have shown keen interest in the SIFC, recognizing its vital role in the country's development and prosperity. He asserted that the transparency and performance of the SIFC have silenced its critics, gaining the trust of all provinces and even garnering attention from other nations.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that Pakistan has moved beyond dependency on aid and is now prioritizing trade and economic cooperation. He assured that any bureaucratic hurdles to foreign investment would not be tolerated and mentioned Saudi Arabia's readiness to support Pakistan in all aspects. The targets set will be achieved through the SIFC, he added.

He also revealed that a team has been hired to fully digitize the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), acknowledging a significant lack of professionalism and expertise. Ministries have been advised to consult with experts and consultants.

The Prime Minister affirmed that all provinces, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, have faith in the SIFC. He urged a collective commitment to achieving set goals, mentioning the UAE's announcement of a $10 billion investment.

Highlighting Pakistan's untapped potential, Shehbaz Sharif noted that the country is rich with resources worth billions, which have not yet benefited the nation. He clarified that the SIFC is not solely comprised of military officers but includes provincial chief ministers, federal ministers, and other key individuals.