Islamabad can emerge as regional hub for investment, technology and trade: ICCI

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad has the potential to develop beyond Pakistan’s administrative capital and become a regional hub for investment, innovation, technology and international trade, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) President Sardar Tahir Mehmood said.

Addressing visiting business leaders at the Chamber House on Saturday, Mehmood said the capital’s diplomatic community, skilled workforce, strong institutions, modern infrastructure and international links provided a solid foundation for connecting Pakistan with global markets.

However, he said these strengths had yet to be brought together through a unified economic strategy focused on attracting international businesses, investment, technology and high-value services.

Mehmood called for a long-term Islamabad Economic Master Plan to establish a clear economic direction for the capital.

He proposed prioritising sectors including IT and technology, digital trade, investment, business tourism, international conferences, education, healthcare, financial services and other knowledge-based industries.

According to Mehmood, such a strategy could strengthen Islamabad’s position as a regional business destination while creating greater opportunities for entrepreneurship, employment and exports.