Quetta:Governor of Balochistan, Sheikh Jafar Khan Mandokhel, stated that the development of any country or province cannot be realized without industry and commerce. He emphasized the pivotal role of the business community as the backbone of the economy during his address at the annual general body meeting of the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Monday.
The Governor acknowledged the invaluable services of the Quetta Chamber of Commerce for the province’s business community. He remarked that promoting business is in the best interest of Pakistan and Balochistan.
The meeting welcomed the newly elected president, Haji Ayub Murriani, and other officials, including Patron-in-Chief Ghulam Farooq Khalji and Senior Vice President Haji Akhtar Muhammad Kakr. Khalji highlighted that all 18,000 members of the Chamber are tax-compliant and have consistently fought for the interests of the country and province.
During the meeting, former president Haji Abdullah Achakzai presented a two-year report, outlining achievements such as the commencement of LPG imports through the Chaman border and the activation of the Taftan business gateway. He called for a 30% tax reduction on land routes to enhance competitiveness for the local business community.
Nominated President Haji Ayub Murriani pledged to complete ongoing projects, including the development of the Bostan Special Economic Zone and other industrial estates. He reiterated the need for a 30% discount for the business community on land routes to create job opportunities for unemployed youth.
Governor Mandokhel concluded by affirming the importance of a conducive environment for businesses, stating that he has previously met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif regarding issues related to the Chaman border. He expressed his readiness to advocate for the province’s business community at the federal level, ensuring that the doors of the Governor’s House are always open for them.
At the end of the meeting, the Governor awarded medals to former president Haji Abdullah Achakzai, Senior Vice President Haji Akhtar Muhammad Kakr, and others, while Sardar Abdul Rahman Khetran presented a bouquet to the newly elected president.
