Amir Najam of Seattle: Pakistan Proving Increasingly Attractive to Foreign Investors, Demands Caution

PHILADELPHIA, PA, October 12, 2012

According to a news article from the Associated Press of Pakistan, Pakistan's Prime Minister Raja Pervez Ashraf recently announced that the country displays strong economic indicators and noted that "the country was an attractive zone for foreign investment, particularly in power, oil and gas exploration and infrastructure development sectors." While there may be a lot of factors that play a role in determining Pakistan's economic progression, Amir Najam of Seattle, Washington, warns investors to take precaution before contributing money to Pakistani corporations and industries.

According to the article, Pakistan's economic promise is highlighted by the country's "strategic location next to three important regions--South, Central and West Asia--that [provides the] shortest access to the energy-rich and fast developing Central and Western Asia." In addition, Ashraf notes that his government has remained focused on bolstering the economy. The article states that "[Ashraf's] government was committed to facilitation of business, reforms and deregulation in pursuance of its economic philosophy."

While these claims may suggest economic growth for the country, Amir Najam, Seattle-based professional, remains skeptical. He comments, "With the amount of corruption in Pakistan--starting at the highest levels of power--it would be foolish for any investor to take seriously investing in such an endeavor. How can anyone take the Pakistani government seriously when they are pitching the idea to lure in foreign investors in cutting-edge technology that involves solar, wind and renewable energy sources? It is a country where widespread load-shedding exists, and all Pakistani citizens lose power for a minimum of two hours each day--sometimes it can be even up to 18 hours!"

In the article, it is noted that Ashraf has estimated that "the country's economy was expected to grow by over four percent this year." In response to such growth, Finance Minister Dr. Abdul Hafeez Sheikh says that the middle class expatriates could benefit from investment in stock exchange and explains that officials are in the process of setting up an investment fund for such expatriates. Despite these claims, Amir Najam responds, "I find it ironic that Dr. Abdul Hafeez mentions middle class expatriates can benefit from such investments, when the middle class in Pakistan almost does not exist. Until Pakistan can keep their own lights on, one would be wise to stay away from making such foreign investments."

ABOUT:

Amir Najam of Seattle is a dedicated professional who has specialized in the field of SAP solutions for more than a decade. Recently, Amir Najam has served as an SAP Functional Analyst for Mikron Industries/Quanex Division. In addition to a varied list of responsibilities associated with this role, Amir Najam provides functional support to logistics, customer service, master data, sales, purchasing, receiving, pricing and production teams. Amir Najam of Seattle also owns Integrated ERP Solutions, LLC--a company that specializes in online ticket sales for sporting events and concerts.

Website: http://amirnajamseattle.com