Senate chairman urges political unity, calls Pakistan’s mediation diplomatic success

LAHORE, Mar 27 (APP): Senate Chairman Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has urged all political parties to unite for sovereignty, integrity, democracy, and economic stability of the country, stressing the need to avoid point scoring amid the current situation.

He was speaking to the media after inaugurating the 11th three-day Pakistan Footwear Material and Machinery Show 2026 at the Expo Centre on Friday. He said Pakistan was playing the role of a mediator between Iran and the United States, and termed it a diplomatic success for the country. He noted that global attention was currently focused on Pakistan and expressed hope that the country would succeed in fostering reconciliation between the two nations.

Responding to a question, Gilani said that the issue of releasing the PTI founder was a matter related to the judiciary.

He stated that despite being a nuclear power, Pakistan demonstrated responsibility during the Pakistan-India conflict.

To another query regarding the purchase of a Rs 90 million vehicle for the Senate chairman, he clarified that the car was acquired during the 2024-25 fiscal year in accordance with the law, along with other vehicles for Senate offices, and termed the criticism only propaganda.

Earlier, addressing the ceremony, Yusuf Raza Gilani highlighted the growing importance and global potential of Pakistan’s footwear industry. He congratulated the Pakistan Footwear Manufacturers Association (PFMA) and the organising team for bringing together international and local stakeholders on one platform and appreciated the leadership of Rashid Islam and Ahmed Fawad Farooq in promoting industry’s growth and partnerships. He said that the footwear sector plays a vital role in Pakistan’s manufacturing economy, supporting thousands of workers and businesses.

He noted that Pakistan exports footwear to over 60 countries, generating around $176 million annually, reflecting increasing global confidence in Pakistani products. He further stated that Pakistan ranked the sixth largest footwear producing country in the world, which provided a strong base to expand its presence in international markets. He added that such exhibitions create opportunities for technology transfer, improved production practices, and long-term business collaborations.

Reaffirming the Senate’s commitment, Gilani said that the upper house recognises the importance of a strong manufacturing sector and remains dedicated to promoting industrial growth, export diversification, investment facilitation, and employment generation. He stressed the need for coordination among Parliament, the executive, and industry to unlock the country’s economic potential.

The Senate chairman also stressed the importance of investing in youth, noting that over 60 per cent of Pakistan’s population comprises young people. He urged industries to work closely with training institutions and universities to develop a skilled workforce.

Concluding his address, he extended best wishes to the organisers and participants for a successful exhibition.

Pakistan Footwear Manufacturers Association Chairman Rashid Islam, speaking at the event, said Pakistan was the sixth largest shoe-producing country in the world and holds vast potential for further growth. He added that the 11th edition of the exhibition reflected the confidence of local and international companies in Pakistan’s footwear industry.

He said the exhibition provided a strong platform for global companies, trade organisations, and the local industry to build partnerships, explore business opportunities, and promote modern technology and innovation. He also urged the government to formally recognise the footwear industry as a key industrial sector and reduce customs duties on raw materials, particularly to facilitate exporters in competing in international markets.

A representative of the Guangdong Footwear Manufacturers and Shoes Materials Association said Chinese participation in the Pakistan Footwear Material and Machinery Show 2026 had surged to nearly 100 exhibitors, reflecting growing confidence in Pakistan’s market. He noted that the number of Chinese companies increased from around 10 in 2023 to over 60 in 2025, showing rapid expansion and strong business interest. He appreciated the Government of Pakistan for supporting China-Pakistan economic cooperation, stating that initiatives under CPEC and a favorable business environment have encouraged foreign investors. He also praised the Pakistan Footwear Manufacturers Association (PFMA) for organising the exhibition and providing an effective platform for international collaboration.

Highlighting industry trends, he said the global footwear sector is moving towards green and intelligent development, adding that Pakistan is emerging as a key market in South Asia. He expressed hope that the exhibition would promote deeper cooperation between China and Pakistan in areas such as technology, raw materials, and market expansion.

Convener PFMA Mansoor Ahsan shared that the three-day exhibition, organized by the association, will continue from March 27 to March 29, 2026, with participation from over 100 international companies along with local manufacturers, material suppliers, machinery experts, and key stakeholders.

At the end of the ceremony, shields were presented to distinguished guests. Prominent attendees included Rashid Islam, Mansoor Ahsan, Chief Organizer Ahmed Fawad Farooq, Chinese representative President Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry Faheem-ur-Rehman Sehgal, as well as representatives of the footwear industry, international exhibitors, trade bodies, and members of the business community.