Interview with Ms. Natasha Haseeb, Anchor PTV News
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself, please:
Natasha Haseeb: I am currently serving as an Anchor at Pakistan Television News where I host the business and economic affairs program, Economy in Focus. The program explores a broad spectrum of national and global economic issues, including business, investment, financial markets, public policy, trade, and macroeconomic developments.
Committed to journalistic integrity, accuracy, and analytical depth, I strive to present insightful discussions featuring leading policymakers, economists, industry experts, and business leaders. Through rigorous research, credible reporting, and balanced analysis, Economy in Focus has evolved into a trusted platform that informs, educates, and engages viewers on the issues shaping Pakistan’s economy and the global financial landscape.
Beyond the studio, I am a passionate communicator driven by curiosity, critical thinking, and a commitment to public awareness. I believe that credible journalism has the power to foster informed decision-making and meaningful dialogue. My professional journey is guided by a continuous pursuit of knowledge, meticulous research, and a dedication to telling stories that matter with accuracy, clarity, and purpose.
PAGE: There is no denying the fact that the quality of investment matters at least as much as its quantity. What is your take on it?
Natasha Haseeb: There is no denying the fact that the quality of investment matters as much as its quantity, because sustainable economic growth depends not only on how much we invest but also on where and how we invest. Quality investment directs resources towards productive sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture, technology, renewable energy, and infrastructure, where they can generate higher returns, create employment opportunities, and strengthen the national economy.
For Pakistan, the focus on quality investment presents a tremendous opportunity to accelerate economic growth and enhance competitiveness. By attracting both domestic and foreign investors to export-oriented industries, value-added production, and innovative businesses, Pakistan can improve productivity, reduce its reliance on imports, and increase foreign exchange earnings. Moreover, transparent policies, ease of doing business, skilled human resources, and a stable economic environment can encourage investors to make long-term commitments.
In my view, the ideal strategy for Pakistan is to strike a healthy balance between the quantity and quality of investment. We need greater investment flows, but these must be channelled into projects that deliver measurable economic and social benefits. Quality investment can build stronger industries, promote technological advancement, empower the workforce, and ensure inclusive and sustainable development. Ultimately, the real success of investment lies not merely in the capital we attract, but in the lasting value we create for the economy and the people of Pakistan.
PAGE: There is a prevalent assumption that Pakistan’s major investment opportunities are increasingly being assessed through the prism of project viability, financing structures and commercial risk rather than geopolitical enthusiasm alone. How would you comment on it?
Natasha Haseeb: I believe this is a very positive and encouraging shift in the way Pakistan’s investment opportunities are being assessed. Today, investors increasingly look beyond geopolitical considerations and focus on the commercial viability of projects, expected returns, financing arrangements, and long-term sustainability. This reflects a more mature investment environment in which Pakistan has the opportunity to attract serious, strategic, and long-term investors by demonstrating the economic potential of its key sectors.
Pakistan offers considerable investment opportunities in manufacturing, agriculture, information technology, renewable energy, mining, infrastructure, and the blue economy. By developing bankable projects, ensuring transparent financing structures, strengthening regulatory frameworks, and managing commercial risks effectively, Pakistan can build investor confidence and transform its economic potential into tangible results. The emphasis on project viability also encourages greater accountability, efficient resource allocation, and partnerships between the public and private sectors.
In my view, this transition provides Pakistan with an opportunity to establish itself as a credible and competitive investment destination. Geopolitical partnerships remain important, but they must be supported by sound economic fundamentals, policy consistency, and commercially attractive projects. If Pakistan continues to improve its business environment, facilitate investment, and ensure predictable policies, it can attract sustainable foreign direct investment, generate employment, expand exports, and accelerate economic growth. Ultimately, Pakistan’s strongest investment proposition will be built not merely on geopolitical relationships, but on commercially viable projects, investor confidence, and the promise of sustainable returns.
PAGE: What is your perspective about Middle Eastern investment in Pakistan?
Natasha Haseeb: Middle Eastern investment in Pakistan presents a significant opportunity to strengthen economic ties, deepen regional cooperation, and accelerate Pakistan’s economic growth. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar have substantial financial resources, global investment experience, and a growing interest in diversifying their economies. Pakistan, with its strategic geographical location, large consumer market, young workforce, and abundant natural resources, offers attractive opportunities for investors seeking long-term growth and mutually beneficial partnerships.
There is considerable potential for Middle Eastern investment in Pakistan’s key sectors, including energy, agriculture, mining, infrastructure, information technology, tourism, and the food processing industry. Such investments can help modernize industries, introduce advanced technologies, create employment opportunities, and enhance Pakistan’s export capacity. Furthermore, joint ventures between Pakistani and Middle Eastern businesses can promote knowledge sharing, strengthen private-sector cooperation, and unlock new avenues for trade and economic integration. By developing commercially viable projects and providing a transparent, investor-friendly environment, Pakistan can convert this interest into tangible economic benefits.
In my view, Middle Eastern investment can become an important pillar of Pakistan’s economic transformation. The priority should be to ensure that investment commitments translate into practical projects that generate sustainable returns for investors while creating lasting value for Pakistan’s economy. Consistent policies, efficient regulation, reliable infrastructure, and effective project implementation will be essential to achieving this objective. With stronger economic partnerships and a shared vision for prosperity, Pakistan and its Middle Eastern partners can build a win-win relationship that promotes investment, creates jobs, strengthens regional connectivity, and supports sustainable economic development.
PAGE: What is your standpoint on Saudi interest in the Reko Diq copper-gold project?
Natasha Haseeb: Saudi Arabia’s interest in Pakistan’s Reko Diq copper-gold project is a highly encouraging development and reflects the growing potential of Pakistan’s mineral sector to attract strategic international investment. Reko Diq is one of Pakistan’s most significant mineral assets, with the potential to contribute substantially to economic growth, export earnings, and industrial development. Saudi interest also highlights the opportunities for stronger economic cooperation between the two brotherly countries, extending their longstanding relationship into mining, natural resources, and industrial investment.
From an economic perspective, Saudi participation could bring much-needed capital, mining expertise, access to international markets, and stronger financing opportunities. It could also help Pakistan develop its mineral resources more efficiently, strengthen its export base, and generate employment, particularly in Balochistan. However, the real success will depend on finalizing mutually beneficial investment terms, maintaining a stable project framework, and ensuring that local communities receive meaningful economic benefits.
Overall, I see Saudi interest in Reko Diq as a promising opportunity to translate Pakistan-Saudi friendship into long-term economic cooperation. With transparent arrangements, responsible mining practices, effective security measures, and investment in local skills and infrastructure, the project could become a landmark for Pakistan’s mineral-led development. The ultimate objective should be to turn Reko Diq’s vast mineral potential into shared prosperity, stronger exports, and sustainable economic growth for Pakistan and its people. It is important to note that Saudi interest does not itself mean a finalized investment deal; the terms and status of any agreement must be confirmed officially.