On Wednesday, the European Investment Bank (EIB) expressed strong interest in financing major infrastructure projects in Pakistan, including the National Highway (N-5) upgrade and a significant water project in Karachi. The EIB also committed £50 million ($55.5 million) for the rehabilitation of the Warsak Hydropower Project in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Led by Edvardas Bumsteinas, head of the Division for Asia & the Pacific, the EIB delegation explored investment opportunities in key projects, including power transmission and railways, presented by Pakistan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs.
The Minister of Economic Affairs, alongside EU Delegation representatives, expressed hope that the EIB would fund some of these critical projects. Bumsteinas indicated a positive response and plans to discuss these opportunities with senior EIB officials.
The EIB’s interest aligns with Pakistan’s development needs, particularly in climate action, water, energy, and transport. The delegation showed enthusiasm for projects funded by other international institutions and is keen on supporting road improvements, water filtration, industrial water recycling, and renewable energy initiatives. The minister also requested the EIB to consider providing technical and financial assistance to the National Transmission Dispatch Company and Pakistan Railways.
