At the World Investment Conference–Sharjah Investment Forum (WIC–SIF 2025), leaders from Europe, Africa, and Asia gathered to discuss innovative approaches to investment promotion amid rapidly changing global capital flows.
High-Level Session on Investment Promotion
In the session titled “Global Leaders’ Insights: Re-strategizing Investment Promotion and Facilitation at the Global Economic Shift,” policymakers emphasized collaboration, trust-based policies, and sustainable finance as key drivers for unlocking new growth opportunities. The forum highlighted the importance of adapting to geopolitical changes, technological advancements, and the push for sustainability.
Rising FDI in Least-Developed Countries
According to the UNCTAD World Investment Report 2025, Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to least-developed countries increased by 9% in 2024, reaching USD 37 billion. This growth was driven by advancements in green finance, digital infrastructure, and reforms in emerging economies.
Africa’s Investment Diplomacy
Wamkele Mene, Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), advocated for a new model of investment diplomacy to connect capital with opportunities in the Global South. He stated, “Africa is moving from potential to participation, leveraging AfCFTA to attract sustainable investment and create a unified continental market.” During the session, Mene signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the World Association of Investment Promotion Agencies (WAIPA).
Image Source: WAM (WAM Emirates News Agency)
Global FDI Trends and Resilience
Mohamed Mulla Yaqoub, newly elected WAIPA president, highlighted FDI as a catalyst for development and innovation. He noted the growing focus on sustainability, digital economies, and resilient supply chains, urging collective action to adapt to these trends.
Country-Specific Investment Highlights
Pakistan: Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, Pakistan’s Minister of Investment, emphasized Pakistan’s strategic location and reforms, which have boosted investor confidence, as evidenced by upgraded outlooks from S&P and Moody’s. The country aims to become a business-friendly hub in the region.
Serbia: Sara Pavkov, Serbia’s Minister of Environmental Protection, discussed the country’s transformation through climate-focused initiatives and a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with the UAE, which has spurred trade and investment. Serbia attracted over €5 billion in FDI in 2024.
Jordan: Zaher Al Qatarneh, Jordan’s Secretary General at the Ministry of Investment, positioned Jordan as a gateway economy with access to a market of 1.4 billion consumers through free trade agreements with countries like the US, EU, and Singapore.
Tajikistan: Farrukh Yusufzoda, Tajikistan’s First Deputy Chairman of the State Committee on Investment, showcased the country’s hydropower potential and commitment to green projects, inviting investment in hydroelectric and solar initiatives.
Trust as the New Currency
Dr. Holger Bingmann, ICC–WBO Global Executive Board Member, described trust as the cornerstone of modern investment. He emphasized adaptability and collaboration, noting a 75% rise in FDI to Africa last year as a sign of growing investor confidence.
A Milestone for Sharjah
Held for the first time alongside the World Investment Conference, WIC–SIF 2025 marks a significant moment for Sharjah in shaping global discussions on sustainable investment. The two-day forum, themed “Transforming Our World: Investing for a Resilient and Sustainable Future,” hosts over 10,000 participants from 142 countries, featuring 130 speakers across 160 sessions and 120 bilateral meetings.
Keyword: Sustainable Investment
Meta Description: Global leaders at WIC–SIF 2025 in Sharjah discuss innovative investment strategies, sustainable finance, and collaboration to address shifting global capital flows.