Internally, domestic uncertainty, expansionary monetary policy and petroleum and energy subsidy, while externally the Russia-Ukraine war and the latest wave of Covid-19 in China influenced the decision.
Attendees from UAE and the Gulf region had previously expressed a keen interest in investing in projects from Pakistan at the UAE edition of the Pakistan Property Event held in Dubai last year.
Analysts believe that the ratio of large imports is often exaggerated, taking the focus away from the real problem, which is the lack of exports of the country.
Zaman added that the policies introduced by financial institutions during the tenure of the PTI-led government provided a very enabling environment for the businesses.
Starting in 2016, HBL adopted a technology-focused approach, which is unparalleled in the country. It re-envisioned itself as a 'Technology company with a banking license' and, in doing so, transformed itself into a bank of the future – one that is empowering its customers through digital enablement.