Sialkot, July 16, 2023 (PPI-OT): A delegation of the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry led by Mr. Abdul Ghafoor Malik, President called on His Excellency Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif, Honourable Prime Minister of Pakistan during his visit to Sialkot on July 16, 2023. Mr. Abdul Ghafoor Malik expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister for his meticulous efforts in managing the economic crisis and securing the IMF Deal. During the meeting, the President Chamber sought the patronage of His Excellency on various issues and proposals of the District Sialkot in general and its industry in particular.
The discussions during this high-profile meeting revolved around a multitude of points, exemplifying the breadth and depth of the matters of utmost importance especially facilitating exporters on priority. These encompassed, among others, the expedited execution of the prestigious Sialkot Industrial Zone project-a venture eagerly awaited by the industry. Another significant matter raised was the formation of a non-profit company for the effective operationalization of the Sialkot Business and Commerce Centre.
Additionally, the President Chamber earnestly requested an extension in the cut-off date of the Overdue Circular. Mr. Malik also advocated for the formulation of a grand master plan for Sialkot, envisioning a comprehensive road network that would connect and facilitate the region's growth and development. Moreover, facilitation was solicited in enhancing the efficacy of the Export Processing Zone (EPZ) incentive regime for its investors. During this notable occasion, the President of the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry Sialkot also requested details regarding the disbursement plan for the PKR 5 billion initiative announced by the Federal Government, specifically allocated for empowering women entrepreneurs.
Responding to the aspirations voiced by the President Sialkot Chamber, His Excellency Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif, in his characteristic statesmanship, reassured the esteemed delegates of his unwavering support and announced the formation of One Window Facilitation desks for the Exporters. The Prime Minister, in his sagacious guidance, promptly directed the concerned authorities to deliberate and expedite the implementation of the submissions made by Mr. Abdul Ghafoor Malik, particularly highlighting the paramount importance of the Sialkot Business and Commerce Centre and the Sialkot Industrial Zone project.
Furthermore, the esteemed Prime Minister, recognizing the vital significance of robust infrastructure, directed the Deputy Commissioner of Sialkot to prioritize the completion of the Sialkot-Wazirabad Road on an emergent basis, affirming his commitment by promptly granting the requisite funds on the spot. Displaying his astute understanding of the challenges faced by the export sector, the Premier specifically encouraged Mr. Tariq Bajwa, the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Finance, to actively pursue an amicable and across-the-board solution to the issue of the Overdue Payments Circular, while recommending a further extension in the best interest of Pakistan's export sector. Whereas, His Excellency also stressed resolving the issues pertaining to Export Processing Zone on priority.
In a further testament to his steadfast commitment to inclusivity and empowerment, His Excellency Shahbaz Sharif directed the relevant authorities to ensure the dissemination of relevant details regarding the disbursement plan for the funds allocated for Women's Empowerment to all the esteemed trade bodies across the nation, fostering transparency and collaboration.
For more information, contact:
Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI)
Shahrah-e-Aiwan-e-Sanat-o-Tijarat, Sialkot - 51310, Pakistan
Phone: +92-52-4261881-3
Fax: +92-52-4268835, +92-52-4267919
E-mail: sialkot@scci.com.pk
Website: http://www.scci.com.pk
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