MANCHESTER:

Federal Minister for Board of Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh received an exceptional welcome during his visit to Manchester, where he attended a gathering on the sidelines of a Commonwealth conference, according to a statement issued on Saturday.

Despite a demanding schedule, the minister visited Manchester and Birmingham to engage with the overseas Pakistani community. A distinguished event was held at Dean House, organised by Naveed Dean, Chairman of Supreme Finance UK.

The gathering included British parliamentarians Yasmin Qureshi, Afzal Khan and Connor Byad, along with diplomats, judges, doctors and business leaders. The parliamentarians paid tribute to Sheikh’s contributions to promoting Pakistan’s trade and investment landscape, and acknowledged his philanthropic efforts for underprivileged communities.

Sheikh expressed gratitude to the diaspora for their hospitality. He noted that Manchester is home to many influential Pakistani?origin individuals, including UK parliamentarians, lords, mayors and successful entrepreneurs. He emphasised that overseas Pakistanis’ remittances remain a backbone of Pakistan’s economy.

The minister said Pakistan and the UK share a historic bond dating back decades. Pakistan has been a significant trading partner since independence, and ties continue to strengthen under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Sheikh said Pakistan has emerged as an attractive destination for international investment, offering government incentives and a facilitative business environment. Key sectors with immense potential include agriculture, information technology, textiles, real estate, oil and gas, chemicals, and import?export trade. He urged overseas Pakistanis to explore these opportunities.

The minister also highlighted Pakistan’s growing role in promoting peace and stability, appreciating the leadership of Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir for regional stability efforts.