Pak: Business leaders suggest PM Shehbaz to build trade ties with India, rapprochement with Imran Khan for 'political stability'.

Acknowledging the government's efforts, Arif Habib Group chief Arif Habib lauded the recent developments, saying, “After taking charge, you have done some hands-on work which has yielded good results and progress on the IMF deal is one of them. ” He urged the Prime Minister to take this spirit of cooperation further and suggested trade talks with India and reconciliation with jailed PTI leader Imran Khan as possible ways to strengthen the economy.

“I suggest you shake some more hands. One of them is regarding trade with India, which will greatly benefit our economy. Second, you should too [patch up] With an inmate of Adiala Jail (a reference to jailed PTI leader Imran Khan). According to Don, he said, try to fix things even at that level and I believe you can do it.

In response, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif avoided directly addressing the political dimension but stressed his commitment to economic development. Highlighting his vision to revive the economy, he urged, “You all are great business minds… Let's focus on real industrial and agricultural growth and double exports in the next five years.” Taking inspiration from the economic transformation of Bangladesh, he highlighted the potential of increasing Pakistan's industrial power.

Despite the Prime Minister's optimistic outlook, concerns were echoed in the Chamber regarding the feasibility of his ambitious plans within the current economic scenario.

Zubair Motiwala, a leading industrialist, raised poignant questions on the feasibility of doubling exports amid rising energy costs. Pointing to exorbitant gas and electricity prices that threaten Pakistan's competitiveness in the global market, he said, “The Prime Minister is keen to support the industry by doubling exports and reducing trade costs, but in the current situation it is Seems impossible.”

Motiwala's presentation highlighted the serious challenges facing Pakistan's industrial sector, particularly the burden of capacity charges and the growth of circular debt in the power sector. He stressed the need for fair gas prices and a strategic approach to dealing with surplus electricity, advocating policies that encourage industrial growth without increasing financial stress.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while avoiding immediate reaction to political questions, assured the business community of his commitment to resolve economic constraints. “I will listen to you and create a plan to implement,” he confirmed, promising to convene further discussions to comprehensively address the industry's concerns.

As the meeting ended, the Prime Minister reiterated his resolve to engage with stakeholders across the country, signaling a collaborative approach to economic revival. “I will soon invite businessmen from across the country to Islamabad and sit with them until all issues are resolved,” he promised, Dawn reported.