ISLAMABAD
During a meeting with the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI), SAARC (SCWEC) Chairperson, Rawalpindi Women Chamber of Commerce, and other chambers from across the country, the Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi, emphasized that the stability of the national economy is closely linked to the development of the country’s industries. He stated that individuals involved in agriculture and business are crucial in pulling Pakistan out of its economic crisis, and that improving the overall infrastructure is essential for the development of national industries.
This discussion took place at the Governor’s House during a meeting with a delegation of the FPCCI, led by Vice President of FPCCI Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Aun Ali Syed, and SAARC Women Entrepreneur Council Chairperson, Hina Mansab Khan. The meeting was also attended by the President of Rawalpindi Women Chamber of Commerce, Saboohi Hussain, as well as representatives and office-bearers from various chambers, including Rawalpindi, Attock, Hazara, Mardan, Charsadda, Haripur, and Dir.
During the meeting, the businesswomen expressed their concerns to the Governor regarding the lack of governmental support for women’s chambers in the province. They also requested the establishment of an agricultural university in the northern districts, supported by the federal government. The delegation highlighted the issues facing the industry in the province, such as the lack of electricity and road infrastructure. The Rawalpindi Chamber proposed the establishment of an incubation center for training women entrepreneurs and suggested the creation of a community center for skilled women. They also emphasized the need to strengthen links between universities and industries.
Governor Faisal Kareem Kundi acknowledged the concerns and said there is a need to focus on the promotion of precious gemstones and minerals in the province. He mentioned that the federal government is formulating a five-year plan, and the business sector can present their suggestions for economic growth. He reiterated his commitment to empowering women and youth, mentioning ongoing efforts in collaboration with institutions like NAVTTC.
He also shared his observations from a visit to Tajikistan, where he noted significant business opportunities for the Pakistani business community, despite challenges due to inadequate road infrastructure. He encouraged the delegation to participate in an upcoming exhibition in Tajikistan in October to explore these opportunities. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of creating think tanks in various sectors, with ongoing efforts in the education sector to address financial and administrative issues faced by the province’s top universities.
In her remarks, SAARC Chairperson Hina Mansab Khan thanked Governor Faisal Kundi for inviting all the delegations and expressed hope that the current government, like Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, will take women’s issues seriously and work towards their resolution. She pointed out that many women entrepreneurs face difficulties due to various taxes and lack of proper training, and stressed the importance of giving women proper representation on different boards to help convey their issues to the government.
FPCCI Vice President Aun Ali Syed suggested that the government should consider linking students from educational institutions with chambers, which would help students better understand and engage in future business ventures.
Governor Kundi assured the women’s chambers from Attock, Hazara, Nowshera, Mardan, Dir, Haripur, and other areas that their issues would be addressed, recognizing the business community and women entrepreneurs as the backbone of the country. Notable participants from the Rawalpindi Women Chamber included corporate members Farah and Falak Anjum, executive members Ayesha Javed and Saika, HR Noreen Tariq, and HR Zubaida Asghar. Additionally, Tahira Naseem, President of the Art & Decor Association, was present. The Attock Women Chamber was represented by Lubna Mansab and Irum Khan, while Noorulain and Amna represented the Haripur Women Chamber.
