PEPSI COLA PRESIDENT ASSURES INVESTMENT INCREASE TO HAFEEZ SHAIKH

Islamabad, November 18, 2003

Mr. Saad Abdul-Latif, President of Pepsi-Cola International for Middle East, Africa & Central Asia Region has assured Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, Federal Minister for Privatisation & Investment to make significant increase in the company's investment. Pepsi chief stated this here today.

He said that Pakistan was an important market and a place with huge  potential. Pepsi was currently serving 15 brands in Pakistan, which would be increased with the introduction of new brand beverages and snacks together by next year, he informed.

Mr. Saad said that the investors were looking positively towards Pakistan
due to encouraging investment environment.

Dr. Hafeez Shaikh urged upon the investors to increase their capacity utilization and to export their products to Iran, Afghanistan, Central Asian
States and other countries of the region after fulfilling the local requirements. The government was determined to make Pakistan a real hub of economic activity by implementing the policy of facilitation and promotion of investment, he added.