I am pleased to learn that the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) is organizing its annual Exports Awards ceremony this year in recognition of the services of Pakistani exporters and bringing out the traditional Export Trophy Souvenir on the occasion.
Over the years, the FPCCI Export Awards have come to be recognised both locally and internationally as seals of approval by the premier trade body of Pakistan that assure the buyer that the product being purchased is of excellent quality. The Awards promote healthy competition among exporters and encourage them to strive harder to push the boundaries of excellence. The Awards also provide a good opportunity to exporters to discuss and examine new and emerging trends in the world markets, and devise innovative strategies for the promotion of exports.
The Government of Pakistan accords a high priority to the promotion of exports. I must emphasise here the need for continued joint efforts by the Government and the private sector to consolidate our foothold in existing markets and at the same time, find new avenues for promotion of exports and thus contribute towards earning more foreign exchange for the country. In this connection, the Government has provided various incentives to exporters, and would continue to do so in the future as well to achieve the ever highest export targets and to reach new horizons in the fields of exports. Indeed Pakistan being situated at the gateway of Central Asia and the Middle East can be a hub for international trade. The government is striving to provide improved road, rail and port facilities for swift movement of our export cargo and thereby facilitate export growth. I request the trading community to do its best in raising the country's exports through value addition in both traditional and non-traditional products for which we have immense potential.
On this joyous occasion, allow me to congratulate FPCCI on its devotion and sincere efforts to promote Pakistan's exports. I also felicitate all Award Winners on their performance and hope that the business community will continue its dedicated efforts for the progress and prosperity of Pakistan.