Pakistan pushes for more OIC investment and digital cooperation

The call was made during a meeting between Federal Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh and Statistical, Economic and Social Research and

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has called for stronger investment and economic cooperation among member states of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), with a particular focus on trade, skills development, education and digital transformation.

The call was made during a meeting between Federal Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh and Statistical, Economic and Social Research and Training Centre for Islamic Countries (SESRIC) Director General Zehra Zümrüt Selçuk on the sidelines of the International Education Summit and Expo 2026 in Islamabad.

Sheikh said OIC countries possess substantial economic resources, markets and investment potential that could be used to develop mutually beneficial partnerships. He stressed the need to promote cross-border investment, joint ventures and technology-based cooperation among member states.

The minister briefed the SESRIC chief on Pakistan’s efforts to improve its investment environment, streamline regulatory procedures and make it easier for businesses and investors to operate in the country.

He said economic cooperation should extend beyond conventional trade and include greater investment in education, human capital, technology and innovation. According to Sheikh, developing skilled workforces would be essential for attracting investment and achieving sustainable economic growth.

The minister also highlighted the growing role of digitalisation, artificial intelligence and knowledge-based industries in the global economy. He said OIC members could benefit from sharing expertise, strengthening institutional links and launching joint initiatives in emerging technological sectors.

Both sides agreed on the importance of closer institutional and economic cooperation to unlock new opportunities for investment, trade and skills development across the OIC community.