Local business community during a meeting at Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry has welcomed the news reports that former British Parliament member Chaudhry Muhammad Sarwar is being appointed as Governor of Punjab and termed it a healthy development for the country.
Chairing the meeting, Zafar Bakhtawari, President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry said that Chaudhry Sarwar is an experienced professional as he has worked in a developed democracy as a Labour Party member of the British Parliament. Thus he has good relations and clout in UK and European countries and his appointment as Governor Punjab would not only improve Pakistan's relations with these countries, it would also greatly help in promoting Pakistan's trade and economic relations with Britain and other European countries.
He said Chaudhry Muhammad Sarwar has already rendered good services in Pakistan in the fields of health and education and it is opportune time that he should be given an important role to work for the development of the country. Zafar Bakhtawari said there are a large number of Pakistani Diasporas in UK and Europe some of whom are well established businessmen and appointment of Chaudhry Sarwar to this important slot would improve their confidence level. As Governor, he could also play an important role in bringing billions of dollars investment by Overseas Pakistanis in the country.
Businessmen said Pakistan has been vying for getting duty free access to European countries through GSP Plus and Chaudhry Sarwar as Governor could play a positive role in getting GSP Plus status for Pakistan, which would enable Pakistani exporters to promote exports to European countries.
Zafar Bakhtawari said many Overseas Pakistanis have gained valuable professional knowledge and skills by working in advanced economies and government should bring them back by giving them prestigious slots in commensurate with their professional capability so that they could contribute for the development of Pakistan.