LAHORE, FEB 12 /DNA/: Governor of Punjab, Sardar Saleem Haider, has said that the government is taking practical steps to promote trade and industry in the country, adding that resolving the issues faced by the business community remains a top priority because a strong economy guarantees a stable Pakistan. He stated that the business community serves as the backbone of the national economy, and the government is serious and proactive in restoring the confidence of traders and providing them with greater facilitation.
He expressed these views while addressing, as Chief Guest, a luncheon hosted in Lahore by Chaudhry Haji Muhammad Naeem in honor of a representative delegation of the Islamabad business community. The event was attended by Secretary General of United Business Group (UBG) Zafar Bakhtawari, President Blue Area Traders Welfare Association Yusuf Rajput, Executive Member Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) Shamaila Siddiqui, along with other prominent business figures.
In his address, the Governor said the government is striving to encourage investment, increase exports, and create employment opportunities through business-friendly policies. He appreciated the role of the Islamabad business community in strengthening the national economy, expanding the tax net, and actively participating in social welfare initiatives. He emphasized that economic challenges can only be addressed through close coordination between the public and private sectors. Praising Chaudhry Haji Muhammad Naeem, the Governor noted that he has not only contributed significantly to the business sector but is also actively involved in social welfare activities, setting an example for other industrialists.
Speaking on the occasion, Zafar Bakhtawari said that the business community stands shoulder to shoulder with the government for economic stability. However, he stressed that continuous consultation is essential to resolve taxation and policy-related issues faced by traders. He highlighted that consistency in policies, business facilitation, and transparency are vital for sustainable economic growth. He further stated that the Islamabad business community is playing an active role not only in commercial activities but also in philanthropic and social sectors, and reaffirmed their commitment to contributing positively to Pakistan’s economic development.
Yusuf Rajput said that the business community has kept economic activities running even during challenging times, ensuring that the wheel of the economy continues to move. He emphasized the need for strong coordination between the government and trade bodies so that ground realities are reflected in policymaking. He also called for a more conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
Shamaila Siddiqui highlighted the important role of women entrepreneurs in economic development and stressed the need to provide them with more facilities and opportunities. She stated that only through collective efforts can a strong and self-reliant economy be built. She termed the event a positive step toward strengthening mutual ties between business leaders.
In his concluding remarks, host Chaudhry Haji Muhammad Naeem thanked the Governor of Punjab, the visiting delegation from Islamabad, and all distinguished guests for their participation. He said that the business community is united for the progress and prosperity of the country. “Business is not merely about profit; it is also about service and responsibility,” he remarked, reaffirming his commitment to promoting trade, harmony, and social welfare initiatives in the future.
Among others present on the occasion were President Islamabad Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industries Owais Satti, Vice President Sardar Zaheer Ahmed, President Talagang Chamber Malik Shabbir Ahmed, ICCI Executive Members Malik Mohsin Khalid, Rohail Anwar Butt, Naveed Satti, Malik Abdul Aziz, former ICCI Vice President Nasir Chaudhry, Secretary General Blue Area Imran Bukhari, Imran Shabbir Abbasi, and other members of the business community.
