June 8, 2003	Sunday	Rabi-us-Sani 7, 1424

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FAISALABAD, June 7: A Dutch firm announced winding up of its operations and projects in Pakistan declaring the country ‘unsafe’ for the foreign investment adding that “powerful personalities” are threatening its staff with dire consequences.

Jacob and Associates Bv., Netherlands, executive director Z. A. Malick told a press conference here on Saturday that his firm tried its best to launch a number of development projects in different parts of the country, especially in Faisalabad, but all efforts proved an exercise in futility due to poor coordination from the agencies concerned as well as threats from some “people working on high posts.”

He said his firm planned industrial development, free basic education, environmental health, economic development and rehabilitation.

Mr Malick said his firm offered markup-free funding to the local governments, replacement of animal-driven carts from Faisalabad with 1,450 locally assembled four-wheelers.

“We did not find any respect for law in Pakistan, rather 93 per cent Pakistanis feel proud when they violate a law. We received threatening calls. Unbearable humiliating attitude had been adopted with us by the public and local authorities. One of our cars was snatched several months ago which we have to purchase from the snatchers. Later, it was revealed that this incident was sponsored by an important person of the country,” Mr Malick claimed.

He said the government claims regarding provision of security to foreigners proved false. “With great regrets, it is announced that we are shutting down all projects with immediate effect. However, the firm will function in Pakistan till December, 2003, to complete formalities,” Mr Malick announced.