Sindh Governor Dr Ishrat-ul-Ibad has said that it is a happy augury that the country and province have emerged as prominent regional business hub and the desire to see the business and economy move with full steam ahead will hopefully be fulfilled.
Addressing at a dinner party hosted in honour of foreign and local delegates, participating in ITIF-2004 at the Governor House on Monday, the Governor said that during the last few years the concept of organising international level trade exhibitions has been introduced in Pakistan, which is a positive sign for our country's business growth.
"I believe that such events are mandatory for the growing economy as they help in elaborating the government's policies and open new vistas to local and foreign investors for investments in service, social and industrial sectors," he said adding, "We are privileged that the International Trade and Industry Fair (ITIF) Asia 2004 is being organised in Pakistan.
He noted that ITIF Asia is the ground that promises to tap the vast potential that Pakistan offers both as a market for new goods and as an exporter of quality products besides preparing the businessmen for the post quota regime of WTO.
Dr Ibad emphasised that for the country to remain competitive in the post-WTO scenario, our manufacturing sector has to take advantage of the conducive policy environment and micro-economic stability by turning its attention to technological up-gradation and innovation, availability of skilled manpower and adherence to international quality standards.
An ideal geographic location, immense natural resources, abundant manpower and above all investment conducive policies of the government would facilitate the establishment of new industries and their smooth growth, the governor opined.