Davos
Pathfinder Group hosted its traditional Pakistan Breakfast during the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2025. Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, the 21st Prime Minister of Pakistan, was the Chief Guest. The distinguished speaker panel included Alexandre Raffoul, Member of the Executive Committee at WEF, Miftah Ismail, Former Finance Minister of Pakistan and Ross Perot Jr., Chairman of the Perot Group. Moderated by Zarrar Sehgal, Chairman of the Pathfinder Group, the focus of the discussion was strengthening global partnerships, addressing economic challenges, promoting public-private collaborations, and emphasizing the importance of governance reforms and youth empowerment for Pakistan’s growth and stability.
Alexandre Raffoul from the WEF highlighted the importance of cross-regional collaboration and public-private partnership in addressing global challenges. He expressed his pride in working with Pakistan and Pathfinder counted the valuable partnership to achieve shared goals. He acknowledged the three decades-long partnership with the Pathfinder Group.
As an expert on economic and financial policies Miftah Ismail stressed that structural reforms are imperative for transforming Pakistan’s economic landscape. He suggested selling loss-making entities companies to reduce government inefficiencies while reducing the corporate tax rate, currently at an unsustainable 61%, to foster economic growth and encourage investment. Implement targeted cash transfers for the poorest segments of society and introduce programs like school breakfast initiatives to address basic needs and create equal opportunities.
As the Chairman of the US Business Forum, Ross Perot Jr. talked about the importance of business-to-business ties in strengthening U.S.-Pakistan relations. A member of the Trump transaction team he invited Pakistani ministers to the U.S. and expressed optimism about the new administration.
Shahid Khaqan Abbasi shared his thoughts on Pakistan’s diversity and vast resources, stressing how they can drive the country to new heights. He also talked about the importance of reforms, unlocking potential, and seizing opportunities to move Pakistan forward, while ensuring the political landscape stays true to its people. The event was summed up on a note that the rule of law, political stability, and strong international partnerships are the way forward. Zarrar Sehgal added that Pakistan is indeed a country full of hope and potential and the private-public partnerships would surely create opportunities that capitalize on that potential resulting in economic growth.
Thanking the speakers and the audience for attending the event Ikram Sehgal, Co-Chairman of Pathfinder Group was optimistic about the US and the western world creating meaningful relations and collaborations with Pakistan.
