Pakistan is exploring opportunities for joint ventures and secondary stock market listings for its companies on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, according to a report by the South China Morning Post on Tuesday. The announcement was made by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb during an exclusive interview at the Asian Financial Forum in Hong Kong.

Speaking ahead of his meeting with Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu, Aurangzeb highlighted the potential for Pakistani firms to leverage Hong Kong’s status as a global financial hub. He described the primary and secondary listings of Pakistani companies on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange as a “win-win” opportunity to boost investment flows between the two regions.

The minister also emphasized the need for stronger engagement between Pakistan and Hong Kong, suggesting that Hong Kong could promote itself more actively to companies seeking international investment. He revealed plans to invite a Hong Kong delegation to visit Pakistan to identify areas for collaboration and strengthen economic ties.

Aurangzeb provided an update on Pakistan’s economic recovery, noting that the country narrowly avoided default in 2023 through last-minute loans and a long-term bailout from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He expressed optimism about Pakistan’s economic revival and its ability to attract foreign investment.

The minister also urged Hong Kong to reconsider its travel warning for Pakistan, which has been in place since 2014. He pointed to recent international conferences and high-profile visits, including the upcoming arrival of Indonesia’s president with an investment delegation, as evidence of improving conditions in the country