Resources
Investing in Pakistan
The before and after snapshots of the Musharraf era present a compelling picture for investors. Pakistan is arguably one of the four to five most dynamic economies in Asia. The challenge now is to keep up the pace of reform. - -
Content
Results arriving at military quickstep
Democracy has yet to return but an improved economic performance is encouraging investors.
Pervez Musharraf: ‘We have broken al-Qaeda’s back’
Interview with President Pervez Musharraf in Rawalpindi on May 15.
Privatisation: High summer for sales programme
The turnround in Pakistan’s economic fortunes has strengthened investors’ appetites.
Relations with India: Peace hopes bring trade dividend
Resolution of the Kashmir dispute would benefit both countries.
Energy: Three routes to meet rising demand for gas
A new pipeline is urgent but regional politics and US anxieties are complicating a decision.
Water: Scramble strains local relations
A policy vacuum, neglect of infrastucture, drought and a rising population have made water an increasingly scarce commodity.
Pakistan key facts
- Official name: Islamic Republic of Pakistan
- Capital: Islamabad
- Population: 157 million
- Currency: Pakistani rupee
- Official language: Urdu
Introduction
Once a part of British India, Pakistan was created in 1947 in response to the demand for an independent and predominantly Muslim Indian state. Initially the new nation included East Pakistan, present-day Bangladesh, which seceded from Pakistan in 1971. Eastern and southern Pakistan, the floodplain of the Indus River, is highly fertile and produces cotton, the basis of the large textile industry.
