Businesses oppose lockdown without talks
Pakistan’s ambassador said that the event would prove to be helpful in building synergies between Pakistani and Turkish technology sectors, the academia and businesses. PHOTO: FILE
Business leaders have opposed any move to impose a lockdown without prior consultation with stakeholders, warning that the government's proposed plan could shut down 30% of businesses.
Addressing a press conference at the FPCCI Regional Office Lahore, Zaki Aijaz, Regional Chairman and Vice President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), along with SM Tanveer, Patron-in-Chief of United Business Group (UBG), and other leaders, said decisions must be taken in consultation with stakeholders for effective outcomes.
They urged the government to reconsider its proposed plan, stressing that policies should be formulated in consultation with the business community. Responding to a question, they said anyone who calls businessmen "thieves" is, in fact, an enemy.
They also remarked that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir have played a key role in elevating Pakistan's position globally, strengthening its image as a capable defence power.
The leaders stressed the need for a comprehensive long-term industrial and trade policy to boost exports, improve industrial productivity and ensure sustainable economic growth. They said business activities cannot thrive without long-term policies.
They added that capital which had previously moved abroad has started returning to Pakistan after the war, with further inflows expected in the near future.