Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal has said that following the success of the “Marka-e-Haq”, Pakistan must now focus on achieving what he termed the “economic victory”, stressing that a strong economy is essential for sustaining national strength.
Speaking during his visit to the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), the minister said that military and strategic success must now be matched with economic progress, as history shows that no country can maintain strong defence capabilities without a stable and growing economy.
He said Pakistan has a major opportunity over the next decade to strengthen its economic foundations by focusing on exports, industrial expansion and structural reforms. According to him, if these priorities are pursued consistently, Pakistan could emerge as one of the leading economies globally.
Ahsan Iqbal noted that the government is working closely with the private sector to expand exports, support industrial growth and broaden the tax base in order to improve long-term economic stability.
He added that the country’s goal of reaching $100 billion in exports by 2035 is of critical importance, comparing its significance to Pakistan’s achievement of nuclear capability.
The minister further stated that Pakistan’s recent diplomatic and strategic developments have improved its international image, and the same level of commitment must now be directed toward economic performance and reform.
He emphasised that exports remain the most sustainable path for economic development, adding that the government is actively working to remove unnecessary regulations, reduce bureaucratic hurdles and improve the overall business environment to support exporters.
Business community representatives and senior officials, including LCCI leadership and Pakistan’s Ambassador to China Khalil Hashmi, also attended the meeting.