ISLAMABAD: The European Union (EU) delegation to Pakistan has announced the inaugural High-Level EU-Pakistan Business Forum, scheduled for May 14-15, 2025, in Islamabad. This milestone event, jointly supported by the EU, its Member States, and the Government of Pakistan, aims to foster business partnerships, unlock new opportunities, and strengthen economic ties between the two regions.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will officially inaugurate the forum, which will feature business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) meetings, interactive discussions, exhibitions, and the launch of the EU-Pakistan Business Network, connecting over 300 European companies operating in Pakistan.
A key highlight will be the presentation of the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy, its largest investment initiative outside Europe, targeting EUR 300 billion in global investments by 2027.
As the world’s largest single market and top destination for Pakistani exports, the EU represents a significant trade and investment partner. With Pakistan’s strategic location, competitive labor market, and preferential trade access (PTA) to the EU, the country offers immense business potential.
The forum will bring together high-level policymakers, including Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan, alongside European and Pakistani business leaders, financial institutions such as the European Investment Bank, and key stakeholders.
Key sectors under discussion include agribusiness, renewable energy, green logistics, pharmaceuticals, IT, and textiles. The forum will facilitate dialogue to improve the regulatory framework, promote trade, and encourage sustainable business practices.
EU Ambassador to Pakistan Dr. Riina Kionka emphasized the growing interest of European companies in Pakistan, stating that the forum provides a platform to deepen economic cooperation and leverage opportunities under the Global Gateway initiative.
With bilateral trade reaching €11.87 billion, the forum marks a significant step in strengthening EU-Pakistan economic ties under the theme Stronger Together, paving the way for mutual prosperity.
Story by Naveed Siddiqui
