The Punjab Board of Investment and Trade (PBIT) has invited renowned Japanese corporation Sojitz to explore investment potential in the province.It made the offer to the company’s delegation in a meeting held to discuss business opportunities in Punjab in order to strengthen trade pakistanbetween the two countries.The delegation was led by Sojitz General Manager Seiichi Mizue while Deputy Manager Koji Kuramitsu and Chief Liaison Lahore Syed Asad Ali accompanied him.Speaking on the occasion, PBIT CEO Jahanzeb Burana said Japan and Pakistan were longstanding partners and shared a desire to further deepen their mutual relationship. He briefed the company representatives on diverse investment opportunities available in Punjab.Burana elaborated on the role of PBIT, saying it was focused on facilitating potential investors in every possible manner as well as playing a pivotal role in enhancing and attracting investments in all sectors. He highlighted the possible areas of collaboration between Japan and Punjab, incentives for investors and initiatives of the Punjab government to make the business environment more conducive.“We offer immense opportunities to Japanese investors in specialised health care, agriculture and agro-based industry, food processing, infrastructure, energy, low-cost housing, livestock and dairy, and education.”The PBIT CEO briefly described the Special Economic Zones (SEZs) that provide investors with attractive incentives and state-of-the-art infrastructure and facilities, adding along with CPEC, the SEZs would transform Punjab into a lucrative market for investors.He suggested that there was a serious need to exchange business delegations frequently to promote trade and investment opportunities and strengthen economic ties between the two countries.The Japanese delegation expressed interest in establishing its foothold in Punjab as they considered it an ideal destination for expanding their business and was actively seeking partnerships.They expressed the desire for entering into joint ventures for sustainable development.Published in The Express Tribune, September 8, 2017.Like Business on Facebook , follow @TribuneBiz on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.