Pakistani investors seek to boost green-tech, trade ties with Sharjah

Sajjad Ahmad, Deputy Business Editor

With bilateral trade between the UAE and Pakistan exceeding Dhs25.7 billion, the two countries actively persuing oppertunities to boost the economic ties. The UAE is Pakistan's third-largest trading partner.

The Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) hosted the Sharjah-Pakistan Business Roundtable in collaboration with the Pakistan Business Council in Sharjah (PBC Sharjah), bringing together more than 200 investors and entrepreneurs.

The event focused on exploring bilateral investment opportunities in various sectors including manufacturing, trade, green-tech, and the creative industries and served to inform Pakistani businesses and investors about the many opportunities and support services within the emirate.

Held in the presence of Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations (DGR) in Sharjah, the event was also attended by distinguished guests and participants, including Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan in Dubai; Ahmed Al Qaseer, CEO of the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq); Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah; Abdul Aziz Al Shamsi, Assistant Director-General for Communication and Business Sector at the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI).

 Preceding the roundtable discussion, Hussain Muhammad gave an informative speech highlighting the strong bond between nations, saying, “Pakistan and UAE enjoy close friendly relations, rooted in history and bonded together by common social values, traditions and commitment to progress. The leadership of our two countries enjoy each other’s trust and confidence and there is a strong desire to further expand political, trade and economic relations.”

Hussain emphasised that the bond between the two countries is built on shared values, traditions, and a collective commitment to progress. He further noted that the leadership of Pakistan and the UAE share mutual trust and confidence and have a strong desire to expand political, trade, and economic relations.

 “Pakistan, with its resilient economy, workforce, and abundant natural resources, offers immense potential for collaboration. Pakistan’s economy is diverse, with opportunities in agriculture, textiles, information technology, and renewable energy. Sharjah’s investors and businesses could greatly benefit from exploring partnerships in these sectors,” said Hussain.

 The Consul General also highlighted the recent establishment of the Pakistan Business Council in Sharjah as a testament to the growing collaboration between the two countries. He expressed confidence that the Council would play a crucial role in supporting Pakistani investors, facilitating partnerships, and advancing mutual economic interests.

 In an inspiring address, Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi spoke on the connection between nations and the strong connection Sharjah has forged with Pakistan over the years.

“In Sharjah, we take great pride in creating an environment where meaningful partnerships can thrive. The establishment of the Pakistan Business Council earlier this year is a testament to this commitment, and by connecting Sharjah’s dynamic business community with its counterparts in Pakistan, we’re unlocking new opportunities for growth and innovation. Our emirate’s supportive legislation, advanced infrastructure, and strategic location make it an ideal partner for enterprises looking to expand and innovate. What truly strengthens our ties, however, is the human element. The 1.8 million Pakistani residents who live and work in the UAE are an integral part of our society, bringing their skills, ideas, and energy to every sector they engage in,” he stated.

 Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh reaffirmed the deep trust and mutual commitment underpinning the Sharjah-Pakistan partnership saying, “The relationship between Sharjah and Pakistan is deeply rooted in mutual respect, trust, and, above all, a commitment to prosperity. Over the years, we have built strong economic bridges, as evidenced by the impressive numbers that underscore our partnership. This thriving business community is a testament to the confidence and trust that Pakistani enterprises have placed in Sharjah as a hub for growth.”

 The Sharjah-Pakistan Business Roundtable featured an insightful panel discussion from key leaders within Sharjah and Pakistan, 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).

 The Roundtable also featured an insightful panel discussion that included key leaders from Sharjah and Pakistan. Among them were Saif Al Suwaidi, Director of Sharjah Publishing City Freezone, 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.

 Saif AlSuwaidi, gave special focus on the creative industries, particularly publishing, saying, “More than 1,500 Pakistani companies are registered through SPC Free Zone, with 800 of them publishers. We provide a comprehensive ecosystem for creative businesses, allowing them to thrive within Sharjah’s bustling publishing sector. Our network of members also facilitates further collaboration between nations and we are proud to support them every step of the way.”

 Amir Hassan, offered valuable insights into the business landscape for Pakistani investors in Sharjah, saying, “Pakistani entrepreneurs have received tremendous support from the welcoming ecosystem here and the streamlined processes, advanced infrastructure, and strategic location make Sharjah an ideal hub for companies looking to expand their reach not just in the UAE, but across the Middle East and beyond.” Hassan also highlighted the strategic advantages of investing in Sharjah, noting its diverse economy, focus on innovation, and strong connections to global markets. He encouraged Pakistani businesses to leverage Sharjah’s free zones and mainland opportunities, emphasising the potential for cross-sector collaborations and the emirate's commitment to fostering long-term partnerships with international investors.

 The event also served to state the importance of business councils, especially the newly established Pakistani Business Council in Sharjah, as being vital for fostering partnerships and growth between nations. This initiative reflects Sharjah’s efforts in enhancing international economic ties, providing a conducive business and investment environment, and promoting bilateral collaboration.