WASHINGTON: Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for enhanced United States investment in Pakistan’s energy, mining, agriculture, and information technology sectors.
The Prime Minister made the remarks during a meeting with the chief executive of the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) Benjamin Black in Washington, said a statement issued by the PM House media wing on Friday.
Black was accompanied by Conor Coleman, the DFC’s Head of Investments, along with other senior officials from the agency.
The Prime Minister praised the strengthening economic relationship between Pakistan and the United States.
He specifically acknowledged the DFC’s important work in encouraging joint ventures between private companies from both nations, noting that such partnerships are vital for creating jobs and boosting productivity.
Highlighting Pakistan’s improving economic stability, the government’s dedication to structural reforms, and its appealing environment for investors, the Prime Minister encouraged the DFC to increase its funding for projects in key areas.
These include energy, mines and minerals, agriculture, and information technology.
He commended the DFC’s existing portfolio, which exceeds one billion dollars, and noted that the economic goals of both countries align well, creating beneficial opportunities for increased business-to-business collaboration.
The Prime Minister also extended an invitation to the DFC to take part in the upcoming Minerals Conference scheduled for April in Islamabad.
In response, Benjamin Black provided the Prime Minister with an overview of the DFC’s strategic plans, priorities, and current project pipeline in Pakistan.
He expressed a strong interest in expanding the agency’s presence and activities in the country.
Black emphasised that the DFC is well-positioned—especially following its recent reauthorisation—to support economic development in partner nations.
Sharif arrived in Washington on Thursday to participate in the “Board of Peace” summit on Gaza.
He was accompanied by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, and Special Assistant Tariq Fatemi.
