Businessmen urge govt to take stakeholders aboard regarding lockdown

LAHORE, Mar 30 (APP):Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) Regional Chairman and Vice President Zaki Aijaz, United Business Group (UBG) Patron-in-Chief S.M. Tanveer and other business leaders Monday demanded that government should take a decision regarding a lockdown after taking all the stakeholders into confidence so as to get an effective outcome.

Addressing a joint press conference here at FPCCI Regional Office, they added that according to the proposed plan, if a lockdown is imposed, 30 percent of the businesses will be completely shut down. The government should reconsider its decision and formulate policies in consultation with stakeholders.

Responding to reporters’ questions, they stated that anyone who calls businessmen “thieves” is, in fact, an enemy.

They added that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and his government have played a key role in elevating Pakistan’s position to one of strategic importance on the global stage, besides strengthening Pakistan’s image as a strong and capable defense power. In light of these developments, it is imperative that government immediately introduce a comprehensive long-term Industrial and Trade Policy. Such a policy is essential to boost national exports, improve industrial productivity, and ensure sustainable economic growth. Strengthening the economic foundation will further reinforce Pakistan’s position as a stable and progressive nation.

They emphasized that without long-term policies, business activities cannot thrive, and such policies are essential. They added that capital which had previously moved abroad has started returning to Pakistan after the war, and more funds are expected to return in the near future.