SHARJAH: In a landmark effort to strengthen ties between Sharjah and Pakistan, the Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) and the Pakistan Business Council Sharjah hosted a high-profile business roundtable yesterday.
With over 200 investors and entrepreneurs in attendance, the event spotlighted opportunities in green technology, manufacturing, and creative industries, aiming to capitalise on the Dh25.7 billion bilateral trade relationship between the UAE and Pakistan.
Chairman of the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah, Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, emphasised the emirate’s unique advantages in fostering cross-border partnerships. “Sharjah’s supportive legislation, advanced infrastructure, and strategic location make it an ideal partner for enterprises looking to expand and innovate,” he said.
He also praised the contribution of the Pakistani community in the UAE, noting, “The 1.8 million Pakistani residents bring skills, ideas, and energy to every sector they engage in.”
Pakistan’s Consul General in Dubai, Hussain Muhammad, highlighted the historic bond between the two nations. “Our leadership enjoys mutual trust and confidence, underpinned by a shared desire to expand political, trade, and economic relations,” he stated.
He also stressed Pakistan’s potential in key sectors such as agriculture, textiles, information technology, and renewable energy.
The CEO of Invest in Sharjah, Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, spoke about the enduring partnership between Sharjah and Pakistan. “Our relationship is deeply rooted in mutual respect and trust. The over 11,500 Pakistani companies registered in Sharjah underscore the confidence businesses place in our ecosystem,” he said.
KEY INSIGHTS
Green-Tech and Innovation
Marwan Alichla, Director of Investment Promotion at Invest in Sharjah, outlined Sharjah’s leadership in green technology and innovation. “Our emirate’s diverse investment landscape includes cutting-edge advancements in manufacturing, healthcare, and real estate, making it a perfect hub for forward-thinking enterprises,” he said.
Creative Industries
Saif Al Suwaidi, Director of Sharjah Publishing City Freezone, highlighted the prominence of creative industries. “Over 1,500 Pakistani companies, including 800 publishers, operate through our free zone. We provide a robust ecosystem for creatives to thrive and collaborate internationally,” he shared.
Sharjah’s welcoming ecosystem
Amir Hassan, Founder and Chairman of Diyar Group, praised Sharjah’s investor-friendly environment. “Streamlined processes, a strategic location, and advanced infrastructure make Sharjah an ideal base for businesses expanding across the Middle East and beyond,” he said.
Hiba Al Marzouqi, Head of Business Councils at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasised the Chamber’s role in simplifying business operations. “We bridge gaps for investors, ensuring they find the right opportunities and providing comprehensive support throughout their journey,” she said.
Pakistan Business Council
The newly established Pakistan Business Council Sharjah was celebrated as a cornerstone of bilateral progress. Consul General Hussain Muhammad expressed optimism, saying, “This council is a testament to the growing collaboration between our nations and will play a crucial role in advancing mutual economic interests.”
Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi reinforced Sharjah’s dedication to fostering meaningful partnerships. “The establishment of the Pakistan Business Council demonstrates our commitment to creating an environment where businesses from both nations can flourish,” he said.
The Sharjah-Pakistan Business Roundtable concluded with a pledge to deepen collaboration across sectors. With mutual respect and shared goals as the foundation, Sharjah and Pakistan are set to unlock new economic opportunities and strengthen ties for years to come.