Need to further strengthen economic cooperation with OIC countries: Iftikhar Ali Malik

LAHORE: Former President of the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry Iftikhar Ali Malik has called for further strengthening economic cooperation with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries, with investment, trade, education, skills development, business opportunities and human resource development made key priorities.

In a statement issued here on Sunday, he said the collective resources, large markets and human capital of OIC member states offered vast opportunities for mutual investment and joint business ventures.

He said Pakistan’s private sector was keenly interested in promoting cross-border investment, joint ventures, business linkages and technology partnerships with brotherly Islamic countries.

Iftikhar Ali Malik said cooperation among OIC countries should not remain confined to traditional trade but should be expanded to areas including education, technology, artificial intelligence, innovation and skilled human resources.

He stressed the need for stronger partnerships among governments, investment institutions, universities and the private sector to unlock the full potential of economic cooperation among OIC member states.

He said Pakistan’s strategic geographical location, large consumer market, young population, natural resources and investment opportunities made the country an attractive destination for investors from Islamic countries.