ISLAMABAD, June 16: French companies are keen to invest in joint ventures in hydro-power sector in Pakistan, French Ambassador Pierre Charasse said on Thursday. He was talking to Minister for Water and Power Liaquat Ali Jatoi on Thursday. The French envoy discussed with the minister investment opportunities in hydel power generation in Pakistan, economic cooperation and other matters of mutual interest.

He expressed his satisfaction over the safe and secure investment environment in Pakistan.

Mr Charasse said the French companies had the expertise to construct such mega projects. He appreciated the economic policies of the present government and said Pakistan was now the best place for foreign investment.

He also viewed that investment by the French companies would further strengthen bilateral economic and trade relations between the two countries.

The minister welcomed the offer of the French companies and said there was no problem in providing required infrastructure to investors. The government was committed to facilitating the investors in all respect, he added.

He said Pakistan and France had close relations which needed further cooperation in economics as well as other fields.

Pakistan also needs sizable investment in power sector for fulfilling more future demand of 5,500MW electricity by 2010 in the country.