PM Shehbaz orders measures to boost employment in Balochistan's border areas

PM chaired meeting in Islamabad on the progress of various projects under the Ministry of Commerce

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for immediate action to create sustainable employment opportunities in Balochistan's border districts, aiming to address regional economic challenges.

Chairing a meeting in Islamabad on the progress of various projects under the Ministry of Commerce, the Prime Minister emphasised the need to bolster exports, specifically targeting the rice trade. He highlighted that increasing the export of Pakistani rice to Malaysia was a key point of agreement during the recent visit of Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim to Pakistan.

“We must ensure that the Special Economic Zones are fully functional, with essential services such as hotels, hospitals, and business schools, to help increase national exports,” Shehbaz Sharif said.

The Prime Minister also directed the establishment of a special cabinet committee to focus on enhancing the production of vital crops such as wheat, cotton, sugarcane, rice, and edible oil. This committee will draw upon expert recommendations to improve crop yields and address agricultural needs.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister was briefed on ongoing efforts to boost agricultural exports. It was revealed that Pakistan had signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with Russia for the barter trade of agricultural commodities. Additionally, Tajikistan has shown interest in collaborating with Pakistan in the textile sector.

Shehbaz Sharif commended the Ministry of Commerce for fulfilling most of his directives, and urged the convening of a National Export Development Board meeting next week to explore further strategies for increasing Pakistan’s exports.