Regional cooperation vital for modern capital markets in Asia: Shahid Imran

LAHORE, Aug 09 (APP): Convenor of the Food Sub-Committee of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) Shahid Imran on Sunday called for enhanced regional cooperation and innovation to develop modern capital markets across Asia.

He said integrated financial systems were essential to mobilize investment, strengthen economic resilience and promote sustainable development.

Talking to a delegation of traders here, he said regional economies could no longer afford to operate in isolation amid rapidly changing geopolitical and economic conditions. He stressed that SAARC member states should harmonize financial frameworks, reduce trade barriers and strengthen institutional linkages to create a more dynamic and integrated regional economy.

Shahid Imran said well-integrated capital markets would facilitate cross-border investment, improve resource mobilization and attract global investors seeking stable, long-term investment opportunities.

He observed that fragmented financial systems, regulatory disparities and limited regional cooperation continued to hinder Asia from realizing its full economic potential.

He emphasized that adopting modern financial technologies, improving governance standards and ensuring greater transparency would make regional financial markets more inclusive, efficient and capable of supporting sustainable economic growth.

The FPCCI leader urged governments to work closely with the corporate sector, chambers of commerce and financial institutions to formulate investor-friendly policies, accelerate regional economic integration and foster innovation-driven growth across the region.