International exhibitions are important for creating positive image of Pakistan, especially of Karachi, and attracting foreign investment by highlighting opportunities to boost confidence of international business community.
This was stated here on Monday by Karachi City Naib Nazim Nasrin Jalil at a press briefing while inaugurating 'Build Asia 2006' exhibition at Karachi Expo Centre, organised by 'Ecommerce Gateway'.
She said that the government realises the significance of Karachi as hub of business activities in the country and believes that it is of utmost importance that the city keeps playing its due role in the progress of economy.
"The government also gives emphasis to improve law and order in Karachi to attract investors from around the world," she added.
With the completion of various mega projects, co-ordinated progress in social sector, and provision of civic facilities, the city would assume a significant position among the world's modern and beautiful cities in the coming years, she said.
She asked Pakistani companies operating in Dubai and other countries to come forward and start mega projects in the country and contribute to government's efforts for making Karachi a 'Mega City'.
She said that Karachi City government has initiated housing projects for low-income people and in this regard draws of 80 square yards and 120 sq yards plots were held, and about 50,000 people were facilitated.
Housing projects on 240-yard and 400-yard plots were also in pipeline, she said, and added that it was a major achievement of the City government.
She asked the builders to provide low price construction material to the allottees of plots so that they could be able to have their own houses at reasonable cost.
Nasrin said that several other housing projects were also on the cards, and as soon as the provincial government would approve availability of land the projects would be started.
In reply to a question about hardship the recent monsoon rains had caused, she said that a 'bill' would be floated in the city council to make it mandatory to build storm water drains along all new roads. The system would also be applied to present road network, step by step.
She said that the city government was being criticised for the rain-related problems. She clarified that the local government was not alone responsible for the chaos, and other bodies like KPT and cantonment were also equally responsible.
Earlier, the Naib Nazim visited pavilions of Pakistani and foreign countries. She invited them to explore investment opportunities in the country and participate in the development of Karachi as 'Mega City'.
She praised entrepreneurs from Turkey, China, Germany and other countries participating in the exhibition. The exhibitors assured her of their participation in the city's fast moving construction industry.
Dr Khursheed Nizam, President, E-commerce Gateway Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd, said that the event would improve Pakistan's image globally as a modern and progressive country.
The international exhibitions allow participants to have the opportunity to explore the immense business and investment, which Pakistan offers. Many ventures, partnerships and joint ventures find their roots through participation in the exhibitions, he added.