BY M QADEER
Interview with LCCI newly elected vice president and leader of the PBG. He shared his insight, aims and goals with The Tribune International
Q: Congratulations on your election sweeping victory as Vice President of the Pioneer Business Group (PBG). What do you think this success represent for you and the business community?
Shahid Nazir: Thank you. This victory shows a shift in the business community of Lahore. The Pioneer Business Group, under the leadership of Ali Hussam Asghar, has successfully achieved the confidence of the community. My election as VP marks the start of a new era where we prioritise addressing the core issues impacting trade and industry. I’m thankful to Ali Hussam and the entire business community for their support.
Q: You were a key member of the LCCI Founder Group, yet despite promises, you never secured a leadership role. How did this experience shape your journey to becoming the VP of the new group?
Shahid Nazir: My years with the Founder Group taught me perseverance and persistence. Despite repeated promises, I wasn’t given a chance to serve as an office bearer. Eventually, it became clear that there was a need for fresh leadership and a more dynamic approach, which led me to PBG. I became the first person to break away from the Founder Group, and I’m proud of what we’ve gained with this new platform.
Q: What are the top issues you plan to tackle in your role as VP of PBG?
Shahid Nazir: There are several key challenges we need to address. First, there’s the parking issue in Lahore, which has become a major hurdle for businesses and shoppers alike. Then, there’s the matter of Chinese visa restrictions for Pakistani traders, which hampers our international trade relations. The energy crisis is another pressing issue. Right now, 40 families are minting money in the name of 250 million people, but nothing is being done to alleviate the situation for the common businessman.
Q: How do you plan to engage with the business community in addressing these issues?
Shahid Nazir: My doors are always open. I am available to everyone in the trade and industry, irrespective of the size of their business. Whether it’s a parking issue, energy concerns, or visa hurdles, I encourage people to reach out. My aim is to work closely with the community to ensure that their voices are heard and their problems are resolved swiftly. I want them to know that they have a VP who is truly accessible.
Q: You’ve mentioned the energy crisis. What specific steps would you recommend to address this?
Shahid Nazir: We need a well-contrived policy overhaul. The current situation is unsustainable, with a few powerful families benefiting at the expense of the entire nation. It’s time to go to opt alternative energy solutions, better regulation, and transparency in how energy resources are managed. This is a battle we must fight, not just for the business community, but for the future of the country.
Q: As you move forward, what message would you like to convey to the business community of Lahore?
Shahid Nazir: I want to assure the business community that we are here to work for them. Under the leadership of Ali Hussam Asghar, the Pioneer Businessman Group is committed to ensuring that Lahore’s business environment thrives. Together, we will address the challenges that have long been ignored. I’m here to serve, and my top priority will always be the prosperity of our trade and industry.
