Pakistan seeks greater Norwegian investment and stronger trade ties as both sides discuss cooperation in energy, technology and climate resilience.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has invited Norwegian companies to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan’s oil and gas sector, while emphasizing the need to expand bilateral trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.
The prime minister made the remarks during a meeting with Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide at the Prime Minister House on Thursday. He welcomed the visiting official and expressed satisfaction over the longstanding and cordial relationship between Pakistan and Norway.
During the meeting, Shehbaz highlighted Norway’s contribution to Pakistan in several important areas, including education, skilled labour, climate resilience and technology. He said Pakistan was keen to build on this cooperation by developing stronger commercial and investment ties with Norway.
The prime minister particularly encouraged Norwegian businesses to consider opportunities in Pakistan’s oil and gas exploration industry. Increased foreign investment in the energy sector could help support exploration activities while contributing to Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen energy security and attract international capital.
The two sides also exchanged views on regional and global developments. Shehbaz appreciated Norway’s position on Palestine and acknowledged its continued support for Pakistan’s efforts aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Gulf region.
Foreign Minister Eide thanked the prime minister for the warm welcome and conveyed the greetings of Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. He recognized Pakistan’s role in regional peace initiatives and expressed Norway’s interest in further expanding bilateral relations across multiple sectors.
The Norwegian minister also appreciated the positive contribution of the Pakistani community in Norway, highlighting the role of the diaspora in strengthening people-to-people connections between the two countries.
To further deepen diplomatic relations, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif invited his Norwegian counterpart to undertake an official visit to Pakistan.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan, Climate Change Minister Musadik Malik, Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Tariq Fatemi and senior officials attended the meeting.
The discussions reflect Pakistan’s broader push to attract foreign investment, particularly in strategic sectors such as energy, while expanding economic partnerships with international partners.