The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) held its third apex committee meeting on Monday, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Among the prominent attendees were COAS General Syed Asim Munir and a mix of federal and provincial ministers. During the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif commended the swift operationalization of the SIFC and its collaborative effectiveness.
The committee shed light on the global outreach initiatives they’ve undertaken, such as seminars and project inaugurations, and hinted at an upcoming SIFC website launch. Key projects, especially in sectors like agriculture, IT, energy, and mining, were given the green light, all aiming to draw investments from friendly nations.
Projects and Investments under SIFC
There was significant emphasis on the anticipated visit from a high-level Saudi Arabian delegation, with the intention of marking it as a cornerstone event. Reflecting on past achievements, it was highlighted that the SIFC approved 28 projects the previous month, targeting Gulf nations for investments. These include significant ventures like the Diamer-Bhasha dam and mining at Reko Diq.
If fully endorsed by countries such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, the SIFC-led investments could potentially outpace the $28 billion earmarked under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). These approved endeavors cover a broad spectrum, from the $10 billion Saudi Aramco refinery to the Thar Coal Rail initiative. Interestingly, the Diamer-Bhasha dam is also on the table for Chinese investment as part of the CPEC.
