SHARJAH: The Sharjah FDI Office (Invest in Sharjah) recently hosted the Sharjah-Pakistan Business Roundtable in partnership with the Pakistan Business Council in Sharjah (PBC Sharjah). Over 200 investors and entrepreneurs gathered to explore opportunities in sectors like manufacturing, trade, green tech, and the creative industries. The event aimed to highlight the support and investment opportunities within Sharjah, strengthening ties between the UAE and Pakistan, whose bilateral trade exceeds AED 25.7 billion, making the UAE Pakistan’s third-largest trading partner.

Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah’s Department of Government Relations, opened the event, noting the strong connection Sharjah has built with Pakistan. “Sharjah is committed to creating an environment where partnerships can thrive,” he said. He also highlighted the 1.8 million Pakistani residents in the UAE, emphasizing their role in strengthening the emirate’s diverse workforce.

Mohamed Juma Al Musharrkh, CEO of Invest in Sharjah, further reinforced the partnership, stating that the relationship between Sharjah and Pakistan is founded on mutual respect and trust. Hussain Muhammad, Consul General of Pakistan in Dubai, spoke about the shared values between the two nations and the strong desire to expand political, trade, and economic relations.

A panel discussion followed, featuring key leaders from both Sharjah and Pakistan. Saif Al Suwaidi, Director of Sharjah Publishing City Freezone (SPC Free Zone), highlighted the strong presence of Pakistani businesses in Sharjah, particularly in publishing. Marwan Alichla, Director of Investment Promotion and Support at Invest in Sharjah, discussed the emirate’s diverse investment landscape, including sectors like green tech, manufacturing, and real estate.

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Amir Hassan, Founder of Diyar Group, praised Sharjah’s supportive ecosystem for Pakistani entrepreneurs, while Hiba Al Marzouqi, Head of Business Councils at Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, emphasized the Chamber’s role in making business connections easier. The event also highlighted the vital role of business councils, particularly the newly established Pakistani Business Council, in fostering international collaboration and economic growth.