Confrontation Between PML-N, PPP Not in National Interest: LCCI Chief

By Staff Reporter Farzana Chaudhry

LAHORE: The Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) has deeply appreciated Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz’s focus towards infrastructure development, promotion of trade and economic development of the province that would, definitely, put this province to the path of progress and prosperity. 
While addressing the delegation of businessmen, LCCI President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigol, Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmad Sheikh and Vice President Khurram Lodhi said that all political parties should rise above the politics of criticism and confrontation and play a constructive role in the country’s progress and prosperity.
“Political uncertainty is adversely impacting trade, industry and the national economy. It is imperative that national interests are placed above political or personal agendas,” said the LCCI office-bearers.
Expressing concern over the ongoing confrontation between PML-N and PPP, the LCCI President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saiagol said that such political polarization is detrimental to the country, especially at a time when Pakistan faces significant internal and external challenges. “In such circumstances, political instability can prove disastrous.
While highlighting the achievements of the Punjab government under Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigal said that she has emerged as a visionary leader, steering the province onto a new path of growth and prosperity through bold and practical measures. In a short span of time, the Punjab government has successfully completed several landmark projects that are not only improving the quality of life for citizens but also injecting fresh momentum into the economy.
The LCCI President said that following the recent floods, Maryam Nawaz personally monitored and accelerated rehabilitation efforts, including reconstruction of infrastructure, restoration of housing and provision of financial assistance packages. Special focus has been placed on roads, bridges and modern transportation networks, which have significantly enhanced business activities and inter-district connectivity.
LCCI President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigol, Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmad Sheikh and Vice President Khurram Lodhi said that the government’s priorities include upgrading industrial zones, promoting investment, facilitating ease of doing business, modernizing public educational institutions, establishing smart classrooms, launching special initiatives for women’s education and improving healthcare infrastructure through state-of-the-art hospitals and mobile health units. Moreover, initiatives such as the Ehsaas Ration Program, free medicine distribution and various social welfare packages have provided much-needed relief to millions of households.
LCCI President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigol said that the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry is ready to collaborate with Punjab government for the promotion of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and industrial zones and Public-private partnership is the key to success. He said that land cost in Special Economic Zones must be brought down as existing cost is not feasible for SMEs and Large Scale Manufacturing Sector.
They urged other provinces to follow Punjab’s example by implementing similar initiatives to support industry, trade, economy and public welfare. They assured the business community’s full support for Maryam Nawaz’s vision and policies and assured that LCCI will continue to work closely with the government to advance the province’s development agenda. He also called upon the federal government to allocate adequate funding and resources to further strengthen Punjab’s development programs.
The LCCI office-bearers praised Punjab’s impressive progress under Maryam Nawaz, stating that the province is now recognized as a successful development model both nationally and internationally. They said that other provinces should take inspiration from Punjab’s policies to boost trade and economic activity while prioritizing public service.
They added that dialogue, not confrontation, is the way forward. “Political stability, a clear governmental vision, the confidence of the business community and collaboration among all stakeholders are essential to putting Pakistan on a sustainable path of growth and prosperity. If we work together, Pakistan can soon emerge as a strong economic power in the region.