Global key players eye Pakistan Airports outsourcing initiative
Paris, Spain, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland also show their interests
In a bid to enhance airport services and foster international partnerships, Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has garnered significant interest from several countries and renowned airport operators for outsourcing projects.
A recent review meeting, chaired by Foreign Minister Ishaq, highlighted the progress made in outsourcing efforts through Pakistan Missions Abroad. Following this, the 9th meeting of the Steering Committee on Outsourcing of Airports convened to further strategise and evaluate developments.
According to a spokesperson from the Civil Aviation Authority, Turkey, Malaysia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Kuwait have expressed keen interest in partnering for the development of Islamabad's Islam International Airport.
Moreover, renowned airport operators from Paris, Spain, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland have also shown positive inclinations towards collaborating on Islamabad Airport's enhancement.
The expressed confidence and interest from foreign airport operators and investors are seen as a testament to Pakistan's political and economic stability, as remarked by the spokesperson.
During the meeting, emphasis was placed on the importance of providing top-notch facilities to passengers without any hindrance, aligning with service delivery benchmarks.
The foreign minister underscored the significance of economic diplomacy and directed the International Finance Corporation (IFC) to expedite the outsourcing process for Lahore and Karachi Airports within the stipulated timeline.
Furthermore, the meeting reviewed Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and benchmarks prepared by international consultants to elevate service quality at airports, reflecting Pakistan's commitment to enhancing its aviation infrastructure.
Secretary of Aviation, Director-General of the Civil Aviation Authority, and Secretary of Law and Justice, alongside other relevant officials, participated in the steering committee meeting, showcasing a comprehensive approach towards the outsourcing of airports.