WASHINGTON (June 07 2005): A noted United States entrepreneur, Anthony Mitchell has said that Pakistan is better placed to invest. He, however, called for a real Public Relation (PR) exercise, since Pakistan was joining late on the international market scene. "You have to demonstrate to fetch success," he told a private television channel in an interview telecast on Sunday.

He was asked how could more and more foreign direct investment be attracted. Mitchell, who has returned from an extensive visit of Lahore and Karachi, said the law and order situation was normal, the infrastructure facilities were conducive, the government policies for foreigners to invest were lucrative and Pakistan had an enormous human resource.

"I'm particularly impressed by the enthusiasm and capabilities of the Pakistanis in the private sector," he stated.

In Information Technology sector, he said we didn't have Y2k boost during which Indian experts joined the international market, capturing instant worldwide attention. Yet, he said Pakistani entrepreneur had to figure out how to build on their strengths which was immense, adding, "This will be your skill how to carve out a place for yourself and get into market of the West."

"Pakistan is cheaper and better, and has easy access to promising markets," he said.

The outsourcing in India had been a success story, and it could still be revived in Pakistan. In fact, there have been sincere and encouraging efforts in the recent years.

Anthony Mitchell, who grew up in Hong Kong and had a chance to visit India frequently, told the interviewer that "Pakistanis are often better-skill and commitment wise."

"Pakistanis are smart, at cutting edge, with brain power," he said, adding there was a period for Bangalore, and it could now be an era for Pakistan.

Mitchell, who writes for E-Commerce Times, raised the economic policies and candid approach of Pakistan, and said a direction had been set for country to take strides.

He particularly mentioned the tax situation, which he described as "much better than those of India, where enormous tax on outsourcing has been effected."

Asked what could be his advice to the Pakistani-Americans, he said they must go for bidding in ventures, which were easier to start with, and try to build up confidence to have a smooth sailing later.

As to how was his visit to Pakistani cities, he said, "I take travel as a venture, and it must be taken in a stride."

He told interviewer, Omar Khan that the people in Pakistan were friendly and caring," he stated that visited Saddar in Karachi; and old city and food street in Lahore, and "I can tell you, the people have diverse habits but entertain high, values."

In respect of eating, he said more vegetarian dishes could be introduced to induce vegetarians. "Pakistanis are different yet similar in many respects."