Finance Minister Ishaq Dar has reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring prompt external payments, emphasizing its top priority.
Speaking to a delegation from the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), led by Businessmen Group Chairman Zubair Motiwala, on Saturday, Dar expressed his confidence in overcoming the economic crisis. He highlighted the government’s dedication to implementing new ideas and initiatives, particularly focusing on agricultural revolution and IT advancements, which he believes are essential for the country’s growth.
Dar assured the delegation that the upcoming fiscal year’s budget, to be unveiled soon, would be business and people-friendly. He reiterated the government’s firm support for the business and industrial sectors, emphasizing the importance of ease of doing business to ensure economic growth and stability.
The minister welcomed the KCCI’s budgetary suggestions and emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the business and industrial community. He acknowledged that the economic crisis should not be attributed to the present government but commended it for taking responsibility to fulfill all international commitments.
While acknowledging the burden faced by the business community and the general public due to high electricity and gas tariffs and overall inflation, Dar emphasized that resolving these issues would take time and there was no quick fix. He compared the current situation to the challenges faced in 1998 and 2013, which were effectively addressed over time.
Dar highlighted that Pakistan was previously on the right track but political instability had negatively impacted the economy, resulting in a drop from the 24th to the 47th position in 2022. This decline has been a painful experience for everyone.
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