Karachi (September 18, 2024) – The Governor of Punjab, Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, stated that the business community is a crucial pillar of the country’s economic development and its most important partner. He emphasized that the solutions to all economic issues in Pakistan lie within the business community. The government is taking steps for economic recovery during challenging times, and thanks to the efforts of the business community, innovation in business is emerging in the country, which will enhance productivity and competitiveness.
He expressed these thoughts during the ICCI’s award ceremony honoring prominent businessman Muhammad Bashir Jan Muhammad with the Business Role Model Award. The event was attended by former caretaker Federal Minister Dr. Gohar Ejaz, former caretaker Provincial Minister Punjab S.M. Tanveer, President of the United Business Group (UBG) Zubair Tufail, President of FPCCI Aatif Ikram, President of ICCI Ahsan Bakhtawari, and Secretary General of UBG Zafar Bakhtawari, along with a large number of business community members.
Governor Saleem Haider Khan highlighted the vital role of business in promoting international trade, earning foreign exchange, and facilitating economic integration. He assured that the Punjab government is making every effort to provide the community with a level playing field and to ease the business environment, making Punjab a premier destination for investment and business due to its business-friendly policies. He also assured cooperation with ICCI regarding the establishment of Neela Dullah Industrial Estate and other projects for the benefit of the business community.
Renowned businessman Muhammad Bashir Jan Muhammad expressed gratitude to ICCI for the award, stating that he has dedicated his life to the economic development of the country and the business community. Despite challenges, he believes there is great potential in Pakistan, encouraging youth to work and benefit themselves and their country.
FPCCI President Aatif Ikram Sheikh mentioned that the Federation is collaborating with all bodies to address economic issues and is advocating for consultation with the business community before implementing policies.
UBG President Zubair Tufail remarked that the tradition of honoring business community leaders is commendable, and Bashir Jan Muhammad is undoubtedly deserving of the Business Role Model Award.
ICCI President Ahsan Bakhtawari credited Bashir Jan Muhammad with reforms in the trading, textile, and sugar industries, acknowledging his dynamic personality, character, and services that have earned him a reputation both in Pakistan and globally.
Zafar Bakhtawari, Secretary General of the United Business Group, stated that the future of Pakistan is promising, and the economy should be allowed to grow, ensuring success through strategic planning and development.
Senior UBG leader and former Senior Vice President of FPCCI Hanif Gohar emphasized the importance of respecting business community leaders, suggesting that other organizations across the country should follow suit and that the government should award national honors to taxpayers who contribute significantly to the national treasury, reinforcing the need to respect businessmen in society.
