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KARACHI, Oct 09 (APP):Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has said that Pakistan must adopt China’s economic model and continue structural reforms to emerge as a strong regional economy by the time the country completes 100 years of independence.
Speaking at a panel discussion during the Leadership Conference organized by the Management Association of Pakistan, Ahsan Iqbal said Pakistan’s focus should shift firmly toward economic development to realize the vision of becoming an Asian tiger.
He noted that the incumbent government has undertaken several reform initiatives despite limited resources, much like the institutional reforms introduced by former Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif during his first tenure.
Citing Pakistan’s nuclear program as an example of national commitment, the minister said that success came because every successive government pursued the same goal with determination. “If we show the same consistency in economic reforms, we can achieve remarkable progress,” he added.
Ahsan Iqbal also highlighted Pakistan’s growing strategic importance in the region, particularly after the recent conflict with India, which he referred to as Maarka-e-Haq. “Pakistan’s strategic position is very strong, and we will maintain it,” he said.
Emphasizing the role of youth in national progress, he said integrating young people into the mainstream, especially in the IT and emerging technology sectors, would be key to driving the country’s growth. “If we continue with reforms and empower our youth, no one will be able to stop Pakistan from moving forward,” he concluded.
Other participants in the panel included Advisor to the Federal Finance Minister Khurram Schehzad, former minister Mushahid Hussain, and other prominent leaders.