Strengthening Economic and Diplomatic Ties.
Deputy Chairman Senate Syedal Khan Nasir embarked on an official visit to Singapore and Thailand, starting from February 26, 2025. The visit was a key step in fostering diplomatic and economic relations between Pakistan and these Southeast Asian nations. His trip to Singapore was at the invitation of Dr. Naseem Shehzad, a globally renowned Pakistani-origin Singaporean entrepreneur and Chairman of the Meinhardt Group, one of the world’s leading engineering consulting firms.

During the visit, Syedal Khan Nasir and Dr. Naseem Shehzad held detailed discussions on enhancing private sector investments between Pakistan and Singapore. They also addressed the challenges and difficulties faced by private investors in both countries. Deputy Chairman Nasir assured that he would raise these issues at the highest level in Pakistan to facilitate smoother investment processes for the private sector.

After his engagements in Singapore, Syedal Khan Nasir proceeded to Thailand, where he interacted with the Pakistani community and praised their contributions to the country’s economic and social landscape. His visit underscored Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening economic partnerships and providing better support for overseas Pakistanis.

Visit to Singapore: Promoting Private Sector Investment
Meeting with Dr. Naseem Shehzad and Investment Discussions
On February 26, 2025, Deputy Chairman Senate Syedal Khan Nasir arrived in Singapore to explore economic collaboration and investment opportunities. His visit was organized at the invitation of Dr. Naseem Shehzad, a respected business leader who has made significant contributions to global engineering and infrastructure development.

During their meeting, Dr. Naseem Shehzad emphasized the potential for private sector investments between Pakistan and Singapore, particularly in infrastructure, technology, and financial services. He pointed out the barriers and challenges investors face, such as regulatory hurdles, inconsistent policies, and bureaucratic inefficiencies.

Deputy Chairman Nasir assured Dr. Shehzad that he would take up these issues with relevant authorities in Pakistan and advocate for policy reforms to create a more investor-friendly environment. “Pakistan needs to remove investment barriers and encourage foreign businesses to invest in key sectors like energy, construction, and manufacturing,” he said.

Visit to the Pakistan High Commission in Singapore
Following his meeting with Dr. Naseem Shehzad, Syedal Khan Nasir visited the Pakistan High Commission in Singapore, where he was welcomed by Pakistan’s High Commissioner to Singapore, Rabiya Shafiq.

During discussions, Nasir was briefed on the current state of Pakistan-Singapore relations, trade agreements, and investment trends. He highlighted Pakistan’s potential for Singaporean investors, particularly in mining, energy, agriculture, and halal food production.

Halal Meat Certification and Agricultural Exports
One of the most significant topics discussed was the certification of Pakistani halal meat for export to Singapore. Singapore has strict halal standards, and obtaining approval for Pakistani meat exports would open up new economic opportunities for Pakistani businesses.

Additionally, Nasir spoke about the export potential of Pakistan’s agricultural products, including mangoes, dry fruits, and textiles. He emphasized that Pakistan must diversify its export markets to strengthen its economy.

Inspection of Consular Services
To assess the quality of services provided to the Pakistani community, Deputy Chairman Nasir inspected various sections of the Pakistan High Commission. He ensured that the embassy was addressing the concerns of overseas Pakistanis, particularly regarding passport renewals, legal assistance, and business support. Before concluding his visit, he praised the embassy’s efforts and signed the visitor book, leaving a note of appreciation.

Visit to Thailand: Engagement with the Pakistani Community
After concluding his engagements in Singapore, Deputy Chairman Syedal Khan Nasir proceeded to Thailand, where he was warmly received by Pakistan’s Ambassador to Thailand, Rukhsana Afzaal and other diplomatic officials.

Address to the Pakistani Community
In a special event organized in Bangkok, Nasir addressed the Pakistani community, acknowledging their contributions to Thailand’s economy and society. He emphasized that overseas Pakistanis are the nation’s ambassadors, urging them to uphold integrity, respect local laws, and promote a positive image of Pakistan.

Commendation of Pakistan’s Diplomatic Efforts
During his speech, Nasir praised Ambassador Rukhsana Afzaal for her leadership and efforts in strengthening Pakistan-Thailand relations. He also appreciated the role of Consular Tanveer Ahmed, who has been instrumental in providing consular services, legal assistance, and support to Pakistani expatriates.

Encouragement of Business and Investment Opportunities
Nasir encouraged Pakistani businessmen in Thailand to expand their enterprises and explore new markets. He stated that Thailand offers numerous opportunities in trade, tourism, and industrial sectors that Pakistani investors can benefit from.

He also assured the business community that Pakistan’s government is working to create better conditions for overseas investors, including simplifying remittance processes and offering incentives for investments in Pakistan.