By Commerce Reporter
LAHORE— President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol said that Pakistan possesses immense natural resources, tremendous human capital and vast economic potential, particularly with nearly 65 percent of its population comprising youth.
He was speaking at a seminar on “Branding Pakistan: Building a Soft Image” organized by the Standing Committee on Corporate Relations & Market Committee at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The seminar was chaired by LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol.
He stressed that sustainable economic growth, industrial development, SME promotion and job creation are essential for improving Pakistan’s international image and strengthening its economy.
He urged all stakeholders, including the government, private sector, intellectuals and civil society, to work collectively for national development, poverty alleviation and projecting a positive image of Pakistan globally.
Former LCCI President Mian Anjum Nisar was also present. Malik Amer Salam, Convener Standing Committee on Corporate Relations & Market Committee, attended the event. The panelists included Mujeeb Ur Rehman Shami, Senior Journalist & Chief Editor, Daily Pakistan; Jugnu Mohsin, Journalist & Community Activist; and Tariq Ullah Sufi, CEO, Sufi Group of Companies. Among others present were Noor Ullah, Naeem Hanif, Irfan Sohni, Ahmad Shoaib Khan, Wali Ahmad, Muhammad Anwar, Majida Naveed, Ishba Kamran and a large number of business community representatives.
Former LCCI President Mian Anjum Nisar highlighted the difficulties being faced by the industrial sector and stressed the need for policy consistency, investment-friendly regulations and greater support for local industry. He emphasized that industrial growth is vital for economic stability, exports and employment generation and called for measures to facilitate entrepreneurs and manufacturers.
Jugnu Mohsin said that Pakistan’s soft image cannot be built solely through publicity campaigns but through justice, good governance, protection of cultural heritage and respect for citizens. She stressed the importance of preserving historical landmarks, promoting indigenous languages and ensuring merit-based governance. She said that a positive image emerges when ordinary citizens experience fairness, dignity and equal opportunities.
Senior journalist Mujeeb Ur Rehman Shami said that despite numerous challenges, Pakistan continues to possess enormous strengths and capabilities.
He noted that the country has demonstrated resilience in various fields, including diplomacy, sports and national defense. He emphasized the need for political stability, national cohesion and a reduction in internal polarization, adding that a united nation is better positioned to project a positive image to the world.
Tariq Ullah Sufi, CEO of Sufi Group of Companies, said that Pakistani industrialists continue to contribute to economic growth despite facing numerous challenges. He noted that establishing and operating industries requires immense commitment, investment and perseverance. He highlighted concerns regarding excessive taxation, regulatory hurdles and rising business costs, which are affecting industrial competitiveness.
He said that industrialists work tirelessly to keep factories operational, create employment opportunities and contribute significantly to national revenue. He emphasized that a supportive business environment, policy continuity and incentives for investment are essential for strengthening local industry and improving Pakistan’s economic image internationally.
Earlier, LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol welcomed the distinguished speakers and participants and appreciated the efforts of Malik Amer Salam and his committee for organizing the seminar. He noted that LCCI represents around 48,000 member companies from diverse sectors, including trade, industry, SMEs and export-oriented businesses, and continues to facilitate the business community through various support and facilitation centers.
He said that Pakistan has been blessed with unparalleled natural resources, extending from the Arabian Sea to the peaks of the Karakoram, but has not yet fully utilized its potential. He observed that successful nations plan strategically and implement policies consistently, whereas Pakistan often struggles with continuity and execution.
The LCCI President said that industrialization remains the key to economic prosperity as it generates employment, expands the tax base and promotes exports. He stressed that SMEs serve as the backbone of job creation and deserve greater policy support. He further stated that Pakistan’s large youth population should be viewed as a national asset and equipped with the skills and opportunities needed to contribute productively to the economy.
Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol also emphasized the importance of ethical business practices, corporate social responsibility and public-private collaboration. He called upon all segments of society to contribute towards improving living standards, reducing poverty and strengthening Pakistan’s reputation around the world.
He expressed confidence that through collective efforts, economic reforms and a positive national outlook, Pakistan can build a stronger soft image and secure a prosperous future for its people.
