Opening the ‘Pakistan Trade and Investment Forum’ at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today, Minister of Foreign Affairs Paolo Gentiloni said that with its 200 million inhabitants, its 4.5-6% rate of growth and the progress made in terms of security and stability, Pakistan represents a “significant opportunity for Italian companies”. Italy, the minister pointed out, is the country’s third largest commercial partner in the EU and one of the top ten in the world. On the political front, Rome and Islamabad share common values, including a “commitment to UN peacekeeping and fighting terrorism”, explained Mr Gentiloni, reiterating “the pain and sympathy felt by Italy for the tragic attack in Lahore on Easter day”. The main sectors of interest to the Italian business community looking to invest in Pakistan are infrastructure, the agro-food industry, machinery and marble processing technology. “This is the time to invest in Pakistan because it will be one of the best markets over the next 20 years”, said Miftah Ismail, Chairman of the Pakistani Board of Investment, urging Italian companies to “come and see with their own eyes”. Mr Ismail said that the government’s commitment to assure security, energy supply and economic stability has made the country “an example throughout South East Asia, with the deficit down to 4% of GDP”. Furthermore, by 2019, the aim is to satisfy gas requirements by installing new facilities, following the 4 billion dollar investment made to connect energy networks in Pakistan”. (ANSA)