"The country has not much to lose on economic front, hence, all segments of society in general and politicians in particular would have to play their role to improve the situation," Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) President Abdul Basit, said. Politics of protests and dharnas is nothing else but to add to the country's economic miseries, Basit said.
"At a time when economic challenges are getting severe, country cannot afford political rift, as it would not only push the economy to the wall but would also tarnish image of the country besides keeping the foreign investors away." LCCI chief said that politicians should try to resolve issues through parliament as politics of agitation has always pushed national economy to the wall. Political unrest had already caused undue damage to the economy in the past besides tarnishing the soft image of the country, he said.
He said that the country was facing a huge economic loss only because of irresponsible statements and irrational attitude of political players. He added that anti-Pakistan elements are busy in hatching conspiracies against China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC); therefore, it is need of the hour that politicians and business leadership should act as defence force for the country.
He said that Pakistan is in dire need of stability in policy making and strong institutions and to achieve the very objective, both the politicians and the business leaders would have to sit together for finding out a common economic agenda. To compete with the world, LCCI president said the country needs a selfless and visionary political leadership who has the ability to think beyond tomorrow to tackle all the governance-related issues.
All the political forces should initiate consultations with the business leadership, including the Chambers of Commerce and Industry, to chalk out an elaborate plan of action, aimed at reducing dependence on external assistance and achieving the long-cherished economic goals, he said.