Pakistan, SESRIC Move to Boost OIC Investment Cooperation – ICRIC | Islamic Chamber Research and Information Center

Islamabad (TDI): Pakistan and the Statistical, Economic and Social Research and Training Centre for Islamic Countries (SESRIC) have agreed to explore new avenues for investment, trade and economic cooperation among OIC member states, with a focus on education, skills development, entrepreneurship and human capital.

The understanding was reached during a meeting between Federal Minister for Investment and Board of Investment (BOI) Chairman Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh and SESRIC Director General Zehra Zümrüt Selçuk on the sidelines of the International Education Summit & Expo 2026 in Islamabad.

The two sides discussed ways to strengthen economic and institutional linkages among Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) countries and translate shared objectives into practical investment and business partnerships.

Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh highlighted the significant potential for investment cooperation among OIC member states, saying their combined economic strength, resources, markets and human capital could create mutually beneficial opportunities.

He said Pakistan was keen to enhance economic engagement with OIC countries by facilitating cross-border investment, joint ventures, business-to-business linkages and technology partnerships.

The minister also briefed the SESRIC chief on Pakistan’s efforts to improve its investment climate, including measures aimed at simplifying regulatory procedures, reducing unnecessary business hurdles and making the business environment more predictable for investors.

The federal minister stressed that investment cooperation should go beyond traditional trade and include education, technology, innovation and skilled human resources.

He highlighted the growing importance of digitalization, artificial intelligence and knowledge-based industries, saying OIC countries could benefit from sharing expertise and developing joint initiatives in emerging sectors.

Qaiser Sheikh also called for stronger partnerships between governments, investment institutions, universities and the private sector to ensure that education and skills development remain aligned with the requirements of investors and emerging industries.

SESRIC Director General Zehra Zümrüt Selçuk appreciated Pakistan’s efforts to promote investment and economic development and expressed support for strengthening cooperation with the country.

Both sides agreed that there was considerable scope for joint initiatives in investment promotion, business linkages, education, skills development and capacity building, particularly to create opportunities for young people and encourage private-sector-led growth.

They also discussed strengthening networks between businesses and investors from OIC member states to identify investment opportunities, promote joint ventures and facilitate the movement of capital, technology and expertise across Islamic countries.

Qaiser Sheikh said Pakistan welcomed investment from OIC countries and was committed to creating a more investor-friendly environment.

He highlighted Pakistan’s strategic location, large market, young population, natural resources and emerging investment opportunities as key areas of potential for investors.

The two sides also agreed to maintain institutional engagement and continue discussions on concrete areas of cooperation, particularly in investment promotion and economic partnerships.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to strengthen Pakistan’s engagement with OIC institutions and develop new avenues for investment, trade, entrepreneurship, education and economic cooperation across the Islamic world.