I am delighted to learn that the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) is holding an export trophy award and businessmen of the year ceremony in Peshawar.
On this occasion I would like to express deep appreciation of this initiative and am hopeful that it will have a positive impact on the trade and industry in the province.
The event would also serve to highlight the business potential of the NWFP and help dispel many of the negative perceptions being portrayed by the foreign media about the area.
The government is trying its best to remove any hurdles and problem areas, particularly those hampering the growth of exports so that local manufacturers and exporters can take full advantage of their proximity to Afghanistan.
Afghanistan and Central Asian states are the best options available to the NWFP businessmen and I would like to assure them that we would certainly perform the role of facilitator in this regard.
The NWFP has tremendous untapped potential and resources, which need to be developed. These include mineral resources, water, wood, vegetables, fruits complimented with seenic potential tourist resorts and industrious people.
We have to exploit these in a manner that could bring prosperity to our people. I am hopeful that the SCCI initiative would pave the way for meaningful start towards a long journey of economic prosperity and industrial boom.
At the end I would like to once again congratulate the President and Management of the SCCI for organising this event. May Allah be with us in our endeavour Ameen.