Pakistani business leaders urge Prime Minister Shehbaz to hold trade talks with India amid economic concerns

Pakistani business leaders, in a dialogue session with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urged him to start trade talks with India to boost business and commerce, which will greatly benefit the cash-strapped country’s economy. .

Asking tough questions during an hour-long meeting at the Sindh CM House in Pakistan’s commercial capital here on Wednesday, Karachi’s business community appreciated the Prime Minister’s determination to tackle economic issues but not to “turn around” Pakistan’s situation. He advised the Prime Minister to focus on bringing political stability. economy.

The Prime Minister has spoken to the business community to find ways to boost the economy through exports, but his determination is based on the fact that it is “nearly impossible” to do business in the current situation, especially with high energy and energy costs. in response to concerns from industry leaders who said that Inconsistent government policy, Dawn newspaper reported.

After the prime minister’s short speech, the chamber was opened for questions and answers, with business leaders expressing appreciation for the government’s recent moves, but demanding more. The two leaders also shared economic policy proposals to achieve the desired results. There were concerns among business leaders about political instability in the country, and they had even advised the prime minister to take control as head of government.

Arif Habib, head of capital market giant Arif Habib Group, said, “Since I became prime minister, we have shaken hands several times and have achieved good results. Progress on the IMF agreement is one of them.” It will begin trade negotiations with India, the report added.

“I would like to shake hands a little more. One of them is about trade with India, which will be of great benefit to our economy. It is also necessary to (make amends) with the residents of the country (referring to leader Imran Khan). India abrogates Article 370 of the Constitution and strips Jammu and Kashmir of its special status, revoking the state in August. Bilateral relations deteriorated rapidly in May 2019 following the partition of the country into two federal territories.

India’s decision drew strong opposition from Pakistan, which downgraded diplomatic relations and expelled the Indian envoy. Pakistan also severed direct trade relations with India. India has repeatedly told Pakistan that Jammu and Kashmir “was, is and forevermore” will remain an integral part of the country.

Prime Minister Sharif avoided directly answering questions aimed at political stability, but he noted down his proposals for economic growth and soon invited businessmen from all over the country to Islamabad, saying he would “until all problems are resolved.” He claimed that he had promised to sit with her. It’s not resolved.”

The business leader also suggested that Shehbaz start talks with jailed PTI founding chairman Imran Khan, apparently for political stability. Shehbaz, who arrived in the port city on his first visit since taking office last month, said the meeting was aimed at “listening to the brightest business minds, absorbing their views and building on them” for inclusive economic growth. This is an attempt to put the idea into practice. Roadmap.

“You are all great minds in business…Today we need you to step up and put an end to this rental business. Focus on real growth in industry and agriculture, doubling exports in the next five years. Let’s do it. It’s difficult but not impossible. It’s a matter of faith for me. I would like to hear your opinion and plan to implement it.” In a veiled reference, he recalled “East Pakistan”, which was “once” considered a burden to the country but brought great benefits. Advances in industrial growth.

“When I was young…I was told that this is the burden that rests on our shoulders…Now you can see how far that ‘burden’ has come (in terms of economic growth). I know. And when we look at them, we feel shame,” said Prime Minister Shehbaz.