The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited opened its Islamabad branch,increasing HSBC presence in Pakistan to four branches.

The new branch was inaugurated by Dr. Salman Shah,Adviser to the Prime Minister of Pakistan for Finance and Economic Affairs and Mr. Niall Booker,Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer HSBC Middle East.Mr. Niall, who is based in Dubai is visiting HSBC Pakistan operation and will call upon the Prime Minister of Pakistan Mr. Shaukat Aziz and other government officials to discuss opportunities for the development of the banking sector in the country.

Speaking on the occasion,Dr. Salman Shah said:It gives me great pleasure to inaugurate the HSBC Islamabad branch.HSBC is one the largest Financial institutions in the world and it is indeed heartening to see them expanding their operations in the country. The Government of Pakistan has and always will encourage such enterprises to contribute to the expansion of our economy in fact such activities act as a reassurance that our economic policies are in the right direction.I wish them success and offer them the Government all out support in their future plans.

Mr. Niall Booker said: I feel that with the current economic policies it is a very lucrative time for investment in Pakistan and HSBC wants to support the corporate world by expanding its network and offering a bouquet of products to cater to all segments of the market.

The new branch is located at a prime location in F-6 Markaz,Super Market area and provides a full range of Personal Banking and Corporate Banking products and services.It is also equipped with a 24-hours ATM facility.

Building No:- 6-A, Markaz F-6, Super Market, Islamabad

Telephone: 051 111 852 852 - Fax No.: 051 2825393

Mr.Tahir Sadiq thanking the distinguished guests said:The opening of the Islamabad branch is a further reinforcement of our commitment to the Pakistani market.We will continue to grow and expand our operations by opening more branches and launching innovative products and services in Pakistan in the coming year.

HSBC now has a presence in three cities in Pakistan, with two branches in Karachi and one each in Lahore and Islamabad.

Contact details are as follows:

Media enquiries to Shahid Abbas on + (021) 111 852 852 Ext 416/ (021) 2211831