Business leaders conference in Islamabad

Web Desk: British High Commissioner to Pakistan, Jane Marriott, has expressed that the United Kingdom envisions Pakistan as a $2 trillion economy and is eager to expand its investments in the country.

According to Dawn News, she shared these views while addressing the 8th edition of the Leaders in Islamabad Business Summit (LIIBS) held in Islamabad.

Highlighting the potential of Pakistan’s young and dynamic population, she appreciated the country’s efforts toward progress and affirmed that the UK fully supports these initiatives. She emphasized that Pakistan’s development is not only crucial for the country itself but also for the entire world.

Referring to the strength of the UK’s economy, she noted that Britain is the world’s largest provider of financial services, ranks second in business services, and third in commercial services. She also pointed out that the UK is the third-largest economy globally.

Speaking on UK-Pakistan relations, she said the two countries are like “two sides of the same coin,” with the current trade volume standing at approximately £4.4 billion. She stated that the goal is to increase this to £10 billion—and she would like to see it tripled to £15 billion.

Marriott further mentioned that the UK is working closely with Pakistan in several key sectors, including health, education, and engineering. She also noted British support for major development projects such as Reko Diq.

She identified climate change as another key area of focus, emphasizing the UK’s strong commitment to supporting Pakistan in tackling this global challenge. The UK is currently running a $45 million program in Pakistan, which includes investments in energy sector reforms, with a special emphasis on clean and green energy to support Pakistan’s macroeconomic stability.

Citing World Bank projections, she noted that Pakistan’s economy could grow fivefold to $2 trillion by 2047. She stressed that the UK sees itself as a long-term partner and believes Pakistan is a promising country to collaborate with.

She added that Pakistan’s large youth population, strategic location, strong business foundations, and rich natural resources present immense potential. According to her, the private sector and businesses will play a key role in Pakistan’s growth, and the UK stands with Pakistan as a trade and investment partner.

Later, a keynote panel discussion titled “The Symphony of Ecosystems” was held, featuring prominent business leaders including:

Jahangir Paracha, CEO of Fauji Fertilizer Company
Jahanzeb Khan, President & CEO of Easypaisa Digital Bank
Asif Peer, CEO & Managing Director of Systems Limited
Fatima Asad Saeed, CEO of Abacus
Haris M. Chaudhary, President & CEO of Mobilink Microfinance Bank
Aqeel Ahmed, Group CEO of Cytech
Abrar Mir, Chief Information & Transformation Officer at HBL

Panelists discussed how companies, people, and technology can work together to build a stronger and more interconnected ecosystem. They also highlighted the need for industry collaboration, the power of digital transformation, and how innovation, inclusivity, and a shared purpose can help Pakistan grow and thrive in a rapidly changing world.

In her concluding remarks, British High Commissioner Jane Marriott thanked Muhammad Azfar Ahsan, Founder and Chairman of Nutshell Group, for organizing the summit and bringing global minds together in support of Pakistan’s progress.