HAFFEZ SHAIKH LEAVES FOR UK TO PARTICIAPTE IN TRADE & INVESTMENT CONFERENCE

Islamabad, May 10, 2004

Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh, Federal Minister for Privatisation & Investment today left for United Kingdom for participation in Pakistan Trade & Investment Conference: The New Frontier being held at London on May 12, 2004 under the auspices of Board of Investment in collaboration with the Pakistan High Commission, Britain Trade & Investment Forum, UK (PBTIF) and Pakistan Business Advisory Group, Pakistan (PBBAG).

The Conference will focus on the investment opportunities in Pakistan, particularly in view of the improved macro economic indicators and policies of the country. It will also provide an opportunity for Pakistani entrepreneurs to enhance their business relationship with the British Business Community and will help further strengthen the trade and investment relations between the two countries. Around 80 private sector business delegates from Pakistan will also participate in the event.

Mr. Charles Jamieson, Chairman Pakistan Britain Trade and Investment Forum who is also Chief Executive of Premier Oil will open the Conference while Dr. Abdul Hafeez Shaikh Federal Minister for Privatisation & Investment will make a detailed presentation on overall investment opportunities and incentives being offered by Pakistan and Mr. Mike O’Brien, British Minister of State for Trade, Investment and Foreign Affairs will also speak on this occasion. The moot will also discuss I T, Telecom, Textile sectors, the legal/ taxation scenario and the Capital Markets Opportunities in Pakistan.

The conference will also hold two panel discussions to discuss the key issues and multinational successes in Pakistan to be participated by Pakistan’s Minister for Privatisation & Investment, Dr. Maleeha Lodhi, Pakistan High Commissioner to UK, Mr. Martyn Lewis, Mr. Farhan Bokhari of Financial Times UK, Mr. Mohni Verma, CE, Veetee Rice, UK, Mr. Vince Haris, CE, Director Asia-International Power/ HUBCO, Sir, Anwar Pervez- Chairman and Chief Executive Bestway GSK-tbc, Mr. Martin Chrisite Director External Affairs BHP Billiton and others.