ISLAMABAD: To bolster the country’s economy, Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari has called for creating a business-friendly environment by rationalizing interest rates, providing cost-effective energy, and supporting export-oriented industries.
He urged the business community to invest in the stock exchange and focus on sectors that aid small and medium enterprises and create jobs.
The President shared these insights while addressing the 12th Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) Excellence Awards ceremony at Aiwan-e-Sadr today, attended by business leaders and senior government officials.
During his speech, the President noted that high interest rates are detrimental to the economy and business growth. He stated his intention to recommend that the government lower the policy rate to encourage business activities, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive strategy to navigate the country’s economic challenges.
Reflecting on his previous tenure, the President highlighted that despite facing security challenges and the war on terror, his economic policies aimed at supporting export-oriented industries and providing affordable energy resulted in increased exports.
He called for measures to ensure the availability of cost-effective electricity, land, and other resources to promote trade and industry, urging entrepreneurs to actively contribute to the country’s economic transformation.
The President commended the FPCCI for recognizing the top businesses with Excellence Awards, which he believes fosters healthy competition. He encouraged the FPCCI to offer valuable insights for developing policies that enhance exports and stimulate domestic industries.
President FPCCI, Atif Ikram Sheikh, remarked that economic challenges are being turned into opportunities, while Group Leader FPCCI, Dr. Gohar Ejaz, noted improvements in the economy and the business community’s efforts to boost exports.
The President concluded the event by distributing the 12th FPCCI Excellence Awards to members of the business community for their exceptional performance and contributions to the economy.
