SHV DELEGATION ASSURES US $ 100 MILLION INVESTMENT EXPRESSES KEEN INTEREST IN GAS SECTOR

Islamabad, January 14, 2004


A six-member delegation of Dutch multinational company SHV led by Mr. Roeland Bann, SVP, SHV International showed keen interest for investment in the Gas sector of Pakistan during a meeting with Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh Federal Minister for Privatisation & Investment here today.

Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh said that the continuity of the country's economic and investment friendly policies had started attracting the international players in all sectors. Pakistan had opened all sectors for investment and provided vast opportunities with pro-investor policies, he said.

The Minister further stated that providing a level playing field and equal opportunities to all investors without any discrimination was the hallmark of our investment and privatisation policies. The company's presence in Pakistan and the role being played by SHV in the economic uplift of the country was an ample proof of our sustained policies, he added.

The leader of the Dutch company delegation Mr. Roeland Baan informed the Minister that US $ 100 million had been allocated for future investment in Pakistan as SHV recognized Pakistan as its core area within its worldwide portfolio. SHV was investing in infrastructure and improving safety standards and was committed to promotion of education and environment as a part of their social services, he added.

He said that SHV was keen to invest in the gas sector for expanding its present operation in Pakistan and to contribute towards the economy of the country. He appreciated the government's efforts for creating enabling environment for investors and its renewed assurance of transparency and level playing field for local and foreign investors.

SHV entered Pakistan in 1998 and presently marketing their products SUPERGAS and PEARLGAS countrywide to its domestic and industrial consumers. It is the single largest LPG Company operating worldwide in over 26 countries with the brand names of SUPERGAS,
CALORGAS and PRIMAGAZ besides other regional brands.