Critiquing past governments, he warned against coercive economic management, insisting the nation’s finances demand careful stewardship, not forceful control
By Faizan Khan
LAHORE: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has emphasized the crucial role of traders and industrialists in boosting the country’s economy, urging them to continue contributing to solutions for commercial challenges.
Addressing a gathering of business leaders in Lahore, Bhutto Zardari said it was a matter of national pride that countries like China were working alongside Pakistan. “We need to consider how we can leverage our partnership with China to improve our standing,” he said. He noted that Pakistan’s exports are seeing a significant rise and encouraged traders to actively work towards further increasing shipments abroad.
Criticizing previous administrations, he remarked that past governments attempted to run the economy through coercion, adding, “I believe the economy should be managed with care, not force.” Highlighting the role of federal institutions, he pointed out that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has maintained a transparent record and that digitalization within the FBR is a vital step forward.
Bhutto Zardari said the Prime Minister and his team were committed to strengthening the economy, stressing that resolving federal challenges was not the responsibility of a single province alone and required collective support from all regions. He praised Sindh’s economic performance compared to other provinces, the consolidation of sales tax on services by provinces had improved revenue collection.
On energy policy, the PPP chairman recalled his party’s manifesto promise to provide 200 electricity units to low-income households, adding that they plan to transition free units to solar power as a green solution. “We cannot implement this instantly, but we will find a sustainable solution and reduce electricity challenges,” he said.
Responding to questions on Punjab’s division, Bhutto Zardari said it was “unthinkable” and praised PML-N leader Maryam Nawaz for her work. Asked about visiting former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, he said he went to Kot Lakhpat to meet him, but Sharif allegedly attacked their party during a public gathering. When questioned about becoming prime minister under current circumstances, Bilawal declined to comment directly, noting that two amendments in one parliament were sufficient.
