In a strategic move to enhance economic growth and foster collaboration between the government and the private sector, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif hosted a delegation of influential business leaders at the Prime Minister’s House on Friday. The meeting was part of the government’s ongoing efforts to create an environment conducive to investment and economic development, ensuring a shared vision for Pakistan’s growth trajectory.
During the meeting, the Prime Minister recognized the vital role that the business community plays in driving economic activity and emphasized the government’s commitment to acting as a facilitator. The aim is to ease investment conditions and accelerate the country’s economic recovery. In his address, PM Shehbaz lauded the efforts of business leaders, acknowledging that they have consistently invested in the country’s industrial and economic development, even in the most challenging of times.
“I welcome you all,” the Prime Minister remarked, expressing his gratitude towards the business leaders for their invaluable contribution. He further reiterated that Pakistan’s macroeconomic indicators are improving, signaling a positive outlook for the country. However, PM Shehbaz emphasized that there is a continued need to focus on key areas such as employment, production, exports, agriculture, and industry, as these sectors are fundamental to long-term economic prosperity.
Highlighting the government’s role, PM Shehbaz underscored that his administration can act as a catalyst for supporting the business community’s efforts. This support, he suggested, would focus on easing business conditions and creating a more investment-friendly environment. “With your advice and useful opinions, the country’s economy will continue its journey of improvement and reforms in all sectors,” he said, calling for a unified approach to addressing Pakistan’s economic challenges.
One of the notable topics discussed was Pakistan’s rice export sector, which has reached an impressive $4 billion. The Prime Minister recalled the establishment of a rice grading laboratory in 2005 with the help of a Chinese grant. Unfortunately, he noted, the country had not been able to fully benefit from this initiative in the past. However, he reassured the delegation that the government would now take concrete steps to ensure such opportunities are fully leveraged.
Looking ahead, PM Shehbaz announced that sector-specific meetings would be held twice a week to address key economic areas, with the first meeting focusing on the agriculture sector. This initiative aims to accelerate the development of Pakistan’s economy by addressing sectoral challenges through targeted consultations.
The Prime Minister also shared that Pakistan’s trade officers stationed abroad have been given clear targets to boost trade and export promotion. These officers are now expected to play a key role in increasing Pakistan’s global trade presence.
The meeting saw business leaders commend the government’s efforts in setting up a National Seed Development Authority, an initiative aimed at ensuring the availability of quality seeds to support the growth of the agricultural sector. Additionally, the Prime Minister’s Green Pakistan Initiative received praise for its forward-thinking approach to environmental sustainability and agriculture.
In line with these discussions, PM Shehbaz directed relevant ministries to engage in regular consultations with business sector representatives to address their concerns and suggestions. This collaborative approach reflects the government’s commitment to building a robust partnership with the private sector to accelerate economic progress.
The delegation of business leaders included prominent figures such as Gohar Ijaz, Syed Yawar Ali, Atif Sheikh, Fawad Mukhtar, Shahid Hussain, and many others. The meeting was also attended by several senior federal ministers, including Ahsan Iqbal, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Ahad Khan Cheema, and others, alongside key officials from relevant departments, including the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).
As Pakistan continues to navigate its path toward economic recovery, the engagement between government officials and the private sector plays a crucial role in shaping the country’s economic future. Through consistent dialogue and collaboration, Pakistan aims to create an environment where businesses can thrive, contributing to a stronger, more resilient economy.