Lahore: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif invited Filipino investors to explore opportunities in Punjab. She met with the Philippine Ambassador Dr. Emmanuel R. Fernandez to discuss bilateral ties, investment, climate change, defense cooperation, and public diplomacy. Political, constitutional, and parliamentary collaboration was also reviewed during the meeting.
Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation between Punjab and the Philippines. Maryam Nawaz congratulated the Philippines on its ASEAN Chairmanship for 2026. She assured Filipino investors of full support and facilities for investment in Punjab.
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Maryam Nawaz highlighted the 76-year-old friendship between Pakistan and the Philippines as strong and dignified. She emphasized that Lahore and Punjab welcome friendly countries and share spiritual, cultural, and humanitarian values. She also referenced 25 MOUs and a 2022 defense cooperation agreement that have added a new dimension to bilateral ties.
The Chief Minister expressed condolences over recent earthquakes and typhoons in the Philippines. She noted that Pakistan stands with the Philippines during difficult times. She praised disaster management collaboration and said Punjab seeks to learn from the Philippines’ expertise in institutional exchange programs.
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Maryam Nawaz stressed Punjab’s economic importance, contributing 60% of Pakistan’s GDP, and highlighted opportunities in IT, energy, agriculture, food processing, pharmaceuticals, auto parts, logistics, and construction. She pointed out that SEZs and investment authorities provide world-class infrastructure, tax incentives, and customs facilities. She also emphasized cultural, tourism, and defense collaboration, aiming to strengthen friendship and partnership between Pakistan and the Philippines.