DAVOS: UK-based aviation services provider Menzies Aviation has signalled interest in expanding its operations in Pakistan, as the government moves ahead with airport outsourcing and privatisation efforts aimed at improving efficiency, attracting foreign investment, and easing pressure on public finances.

The development emerged during a meeting between Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb and Menzies Aviation Chairperson Hassan El Houry on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos.

The talks focused on improving airport services, enhancing operational efficiency, and exploring investment opportunities aligned with Pakistan’s reform and privatisation agenda. Aurangzeb briefed the Menzies leadership on the government’s plans to privatise state-owned enterprises and outsource operations at major airports, including Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. He also shared updates on progress related to Pakistan International Airlines, a key component of the reform drive.

Aurangzeb said Pakistan’s economy was moving in a positive direction, creating a more conducive environment for private sector participation and international partnerships. He noted that recent reform measures had helped restore investor confidence and generate interest across multiple sectors.

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El Houry briefed the finance minister on Menzies Aviation’s global operations and experience in delivering ground handling and airport services at more than 350 airports in over 60 countries. He identified Pakistan as a promising destination for aviation-related investment, highlighted Sialkot for its strategic importance in aviation and logistics, and expressed the company’s interest in continuing and expanding its engagement in the country.

Both sides also discussed ways to enhance airport service quality and improve the overall passenger experience, noting that better-run airports play a critical role in supporting trade, tourism, and connectivity.

On the sidelines of the forum, Aurangzeb held a series of meetings focused on advancing Pakistan’s economic reform agenda and strengthening international partnerships. He met Masato Kanda, President of the Asian Development Bank, to review progress on ongoing reforms and discuss ways to deepen cooperation.

During the meeting, the ADB president noted that Pakistan was entering an important phase of economic transformation, with renewed momentum in reforms and improving market confidence. Aurangzeb thanked the bank for its continued support and said Pakistan’s relationship with ADB had entered a more strategic phase.

The discussions also covered efforts to modernise Pakistan’s energy sector and advance sustainable and clean energy solutions, with both sides agreeing to maintain close coordination to support inclusive and durable economic growth.