ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir has expressed the unwavering support of the Pakistan Army to assist the government in revitalizing the country’s economy, as reported by ARY News.
General Munir made this commitment during the second session of the Special Investment Facilitation Council’s (SIFC) 5th Apex Committee meeting. The meeting aimed to discuss strategies for improving the business and investment climate in Pakistan.
Representatives from several ministries, including Foreign Affairs, Interior, Information Technology & Telecommunications, National Food Security & Research, and Water Resources, were present at the meeting to provide input for enhancing the business and investment environment in the country.
The meeting, chaired by caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, was attended by the Chief of Army Staff, Federal Cabinet members, Provincial Chief Ministers, and high-level government officials.
During the meeting, the ministries presented comprehensive plans, outlining milestones, timelines, and proposed solutions to overcome significant challenges.
The committee unanimously agreed to make decisions in the best interest of the country and tackle issues such as smuggling, hoarding, and market manipulations through a robust enforcement mechanism.
The caretaker Prime Minister urged the ministries to utilize the interim period effectively, contributing positively to the economy while also implementing medium and long-term policy interventions.
New Easy Visa Regime for Foreign Businessmen
Prior to the meeting, caretaker PM Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar announced a new easy visa regime for foreign businessmen intending to visit Pakistan through a video statement.
Under the new visa regime, foreign businessmen can obtain visas based on a document from their home country or international business organizations. Pakistani missions will issue visas based on this single document, making it easier for foreigners to conduct business in Pakistan.
In addition, if Pakistani chambers of commerce or business organizations issue a document to a foreign businessman, they will also be eligible for easy visas.
This new visa regime aims to facilitate business travel and promote economic growth in Pakistan. The Prime Minister expressed his optimism that this initiative would usher in a new era of business and economic prosperity for the country.