Friday, 26 April 2024, 01:26:57 am

Analysts hail PTI-led government’s commitment to robust economic development
January 19, 2022

Mirza Ikhtiyar Baig (Economist): Small and Medium Enterprises are the backbone of any country. Unfortunately, this sector has been badly neglected by the previous governments. The incumbent government is forcing banks to finance the SME sector and is also directing SBP to devise policies to facilitate this important sector. In most countries, SMEs constitute more than 90% of all enterprises and significantly contribute towards economic growth. This industry creates more than 80-85% jobs in the country that reduces unemployment. In order to sustain a healthy SME sector, it is imperative to support development of small industries in a well-coordinated manner. Another great initiative of the incumbent government is special focus on the development of big cities. The big cities have become congested and expansion is need of the hour. With an urban population growing three percent per year, Pakistanis are flocking to cities faster than any other country in South Asia.

Dr. Salman Shah (Advisor to Punjab Government):  Prime Minister Imran Khan since taking oath has been paying special focus on the improvement of housing, construction and real estate sectors. The main stress is being laid on town planning so that every city can be accommodated as per its capacity. The issues of water supply, transport, industries, markets, and mass transport can be focused in the town planning. The unplanned and haphazard urbanization has resulted into urban slums, environmental degradation, poverty and inequality. The Prime Minister has taken a great initiative to focus on development of big cities as it will benefit the country in the long run. The more urbanized areas indicate higher per capita income and more employment opportunities.

Abdullah Gul (Defense Analyst): I am not surprised with the filing of application by London-based law firm seeking the arrest of India’s army chief and home minister over their roles in war crimes  in IIOJ&K. It is not for the first time that embarrassment has come for India. In the past, the current Indian Prime Minister was known as the butcher of Gujarat. The United States put his name on the sanction list and he was not allowed to enter the United States. Now the sitting Indian Army Chief and Defense Minister are being held responsible for the torture, kidnapping and killing of activists, journalists and civilians. A man in uniform and representing one of the world's largest army must be ashamed of these acts. Indian aggressive policies and worst human right violations have been exposed and the international voices are rising, condemning the Indian government's policies.

Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Asif Yasin Malik (Defense Analyst): Due to its dynamic nature, many nations evolve and announce strategies to bolster their national security. The nation of Pakistan will be truly secure only if it has economic and human security alongside military security. It is a fact that only a comprehensive national security policy can help ensure peace, stability and the development of a nation. Pakistan has launched its first-ever security policy and the need of the hour is to ensure its effective implementation.