Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has termed Pakistan-UAE relations longstanding and strategic as International Foodstuffs Company (IFFCO) conveyed plans to further expand its investment in Pakistan.

Aurangzeb made the remarks during a meeting with an IFFCO delegation led by Global Group Director Abdelghani Abdullah and IFFCO Pakistan CEO Arshaduddin Ahmed at the Finance Division on Monday.

The minister appreciated IFFCO’s contribution to Pakistan’s food and manufacturing sectors and its role in creating jobs, supporting local production and strengthening related industries.

The delegation briefed Aurangzeb on IFFCO’s international operations and business activities in around 50 countries. The UAE-based group has interests in food manufacturing, edible oils and fats, agriculture, dairy, confectionery, poultry and animal nutrition.

IFFCO said Pakistan remains an important market and expressed its intention to increase investment and expand operations in the country.

The company has operated in Pakistan since 2006 and has invested around $100 million. Its local presence has grown from one oil and fats refinery to two refineries and five manufacturing facilities, along with businesses in seed crushing, animal nutrition and feed mills.

IFFCO also highlighted the potential for further growth in Pakistan’s food and industrial sectors and said it sees opportunities to expand alongside its local customers.

Aurangzeb welcomed the company’s investment plans and assured the delegation of the government’s support for existing investors and new projects aimed at industrial growth, employment and greater local value addition.

He also appreciated the UAE Embassy’s role in facilitating stronger economic and commercial ties between Pakistan and the UAE. The minister expressed confidence that bilateral investment and business cooperation would continue to deepen.

IFFCO reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Pakistan and its plans to strengthen its operations and investment footprint.