KARACHI, Dec 3 (Alliance News): Federal Minister for Planning, Development, and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal, representing the Prime Minister, lauded the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) for achieving over 60% growth in 2024.
Speaking at the PSX gong-striking ceremony on Tuesday, he praised the exchange’s performance as a testament to Pakistan’s resilience and economic potential.
During his address, Ahsan Iqbal emphasized the critical need for peace, political stability, consistent policies, and commitment to reforms for sustainable national progress. He stressed that these pillars are essential to creating a conducive ecosystem for development.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s centenary vision for 2047, Ahsan Iqbal urged the nation to fulfill the ideals of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Allama Iqbal while ensuring strategic progress in the competitive economic landscape of the 21st century.
He announced the forthcoming National Economic Transformation Plan, focusing on export-led growth and branding “Made in Pakistan” products.
He highlighted the need to connect with global supply chains, noting the absence of Pakistani companies exceeding a $2 billion valuation.
The minister also recounted the PML-N’s achievements in addressing crises such as terrorism, energy shortages, and target killings in Karachi during its 2013 tenure. However, he criticized the political instability of 2018, which disrupted progress on key projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Ahsan Iqbal acknowledged the sacrifices made to stabilize the economy after the government resumed power in 2022, highlighting reforms that reduced inflation, boosted IT exports, and improved international ratings.
He pointed to the PSX’s surge from 30,000 to 100,000 points as evidence of Pakistan’s growing investment potential.
Earlier, the event began with Ahsan Iqbal striking the gong alongside PSX Chairman Farukh Sabzwari and business leaders, marking a significant moment for Pakistan’s economic aspirations.
