Pakistan Focuses on IT, Mining, and Energy Partnerships With Saudi Arabia
ALULA : Pakistan’s Finance Minister Mohammed Aurangzeb described Saudi Arabia as a “longstanding partner” and highlighted the importance of sustainable, mutually beneficial cooperation, particularly in key economic sectors.
Speaking to Arab News on the sidelines of the AlUla Conference for Emerging Market Economies, Aurangzeb said the Pakistan–Saudi relationship remains resilient despite global geopolitical tensions. He expressed gratitude for Saudi support during Pakistan’s periods of economic instability and noted that the country is now well positioned for growth.
Aurangzeb cited investment across multiple sectors, including minerals and mining, information technology, agriculture, and tourism, with an active pipeline of Saudi projects, such as Wafi’s entry into Pakistan’s downstream oil and gas sector. He emphasized that private sector activity drives growth, while government-to-government cooperation focuses on infrastructure development.
Acknowledging past concerns related to bureaucracy and delays, the Finance Minister said structural reforms and fiscal discipline over the past two years have improved the business environment. He highlighted mining and refining as key areas of engagement, including discussions on the Reko Diq project, while stressing that talks with Saudi investors extend beyond individual ventures.
Aurangzeb also noted growing collaboration in the IT sector, particularly in artificial intelligence, with several Pakistani tech firms already in discussions with Saudi counterparts or operating offices in the Kingdom. He highlighted Pakistan’s large freelance workforce as a key opportunity for partnership, contingent on upskilling and training.
The Finance Minister pointed to potential benefits from Saudi expertise in the energy sector and noted ongoing cooperation in defense production. He emphasized that Pakistan aims to shift its relationship with Saudi Arabia from reliance on aid toward a focus on trade and investment.
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