https://twitter.com/home https://www.facebook.com/Shabbir.Hussain191By Shabbir Hussain
ISLAMABAD, Aug 2 (Alliance News): France and Pakistan have reaffirmed their commitment to deepen economic relations, explore investment opportunities, and expand bilateral trade.
This commitment was made during a meeting between French Ambassador to Pakistan Mr. Nicolas Galey and Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Ali Pervaiz Malik at the Finance Division on Friday, according to a press release.
Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik highlighted Pakistan’s economic progress, citing positive trends such as increased foreign exchange reserves, decreased inflation, and a robust stock market. These improvements have been corroborated by recent ratings from international agencies.
Malik outlined key reforms currently underway, including privatization initiatives, advancements in the energy sector, and restructuring of state-owned enterprises (SOEs). He also discussed the digitization initiative of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), supported by McKinsey, aimed at enhancing tax administration and compliance.
The minister emphasized the budget for 2024-25, which focuses on strategies to expand the tax base by integrating untaxed segments and encouraging non-filers to comply.
Significant projects in customs and inland revenue aimed at improving digitization and operational efficiency were also discussed.
Ambassador Nicolas Galey expressed appreciation for the reforms undertaken by Pakistan and offered technical support from France in areas of mutual interest.
He recognized the progress made by the Government of Pakistan in stabilizing the economy and expressed confidence in the potential for further collaboration.
