Pakistan’s ease of business reforms to create jobs, more investment: WB President

David Malpass says Pakistan stood among the top ten reformers in this year's report

ISLAMABAD: World Bank Group President David Malpass on Thursday said the reforms carried out by Pakistan for ease of doing business would help create jobs, attract investment and generate more tax revenue.

Addressing the “Doing Business Reforms Exhibition” held by the Board of Investment to celebrate Pakistan’s 28-point jump in the World Bank’s report on ease of doing business, the WB president said he was pleased to be in Pakistan to celebrate the development.

“Thank you, prime minister. Thank you, everyone,” he said.

Prime Minister Imran Khan attended the ceremony as chief guest, along with Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, federal ministers, Bol Chairman Zubair Gilani and acting British High Commissioner Richard Crowder.

The WB president said Pakistan stood among the top ten reformers in this year's report, resulting in an increase in growth and job opportunities in the coming years.

Ease of business: Pakistan up 28 places on World Bank index

He said according to the report, Pakistan carried out the most reforms in the South Asia region.

“Your country jumps to 108th place from 136th last year. Your reforms made it easier for the entrepreneurs to start businesses get electricity and construction permits, register property, pay taxes and trade across the border,” he added.

“I congratulate you all, prime minister, chief minister, your team for this achievement. Ownership of reforms at a higher level makes a big difference,” he said.

The president also noted that the reforms made by Pakistan would create better jobs, higher income, generate more tax revenue and attract more investment.

While encouraging more reforms, he called for more measures to protect women’s welfare, strengthen the energy and education sectors and simplify taxation.