LAHORE: Terming continuity of beneficial policies vital for the economic development, Punjab Governor Baligh-ur-Rehman said on Friday that bringing national stability, economic development and provision of basic amenities to the people is top priority of the government.

“Despite the economic challenges, the government is taking steps to provide favourable opportunities to business community,” he said while talking to a delegation of the Sargodha Chamber of Small Traders and Industries (SCSTSI), led by its founder president Sheikh Asif Iqbal called on him at Governor House today.

The meeting was attended by businessmen representing the SMEs sector from different cities. Talking on the occasion, the Governor said the SME sector has an important role to play in the national economy.

“The government was promoting solar panels to meet the energy shortage,” he said, adding: “It was very important for the universities to liaise with the SMEs and he would also give instructions to the vice-chancellors of the universities in this regard.

He said that business not only promotes socio-economic development but also provides job opportunities to millions of people. He further said the government is well aware of the problems faced by the business community and steps are taken to provide them maximum relief.

Sheikh Asif Iqbal said that SMEs account for 85% of the national economy and with the patronage of the government, SMEs can play an important role in the development of the national economy.

Ahmed Mehmood Bhatti said that giving solar panels on easy installments would end the energy crisis.

Mehr Riaz said that one million people connected with the hotel industry should be given industry status.

Later, the Governor presented First SMEs Best Achievement Awards to the businessmen representing the SMEs sector for showing outstanding performance.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2022