Speakers at the seminar on the theme, “Towards Economic Independence” were unanimous in their views that expanding exports and improvement in the system of tax collection were the pre-requisites for boosting national economy.
The seminar was organized by the Information Service Academy as part of academic activities of Information Group trainee officers. It was also part of events scheduled for Diamond Jubilee celebrations.
Dr. Hidayatullah Khan from the University of Modern Languages, Mr. Saddam Hussain, Research Economist from Pakistan Institute of Development Economics (PIDE) and Ms Saba Javed, trainee officer of the Information Group dilated at length on the subject.
Dr. Hidayat ullah Khan in his address emphasized the importance of economic freedom, provision of a level playing field, where every citizen of the state had equal opportunities to undertake a business, set up an industry or make investment in the sphere of his or her choice with full facilitation from various departments concerned. He stressed simplification of procedures for taking up a business as well as procedures for payment of tax. He presented a comparative analysis of World Economic Freedom Index and explained how economic freedom leads to fiscal health and rule of law. He added that economic freedom ensures increased prosperity for all, poverty alleviation. He added it reduces probability of conflicts and brings in improvement in quality of life.
Mr. Saddam Hussein in his remarks, highlighted the growth pattern of Pakistan’s economy during different phases of the history and also spoke in detail on the economic difficulties being faced by the country. He called for key policy interventions and emphasized that betterment of economy should take precedence over all other considerations. He said civil service reforms, universal internet access, and slashing down the sludge - the unnecessary administrative cost - are key factors that can boost the economy eventually. He also emphasized one window operation for attracting investment and encouraging business activities. Summing up his take on economy, he said deregulation, digitization and privatization were the key elements for realizing economic growth and development.
Ms Saba Jawaid in her presentation, explained the current economic situation in detail. She laid emphasis on promoting value addition of products for enhancing quality exports, thereby earning precious foreign exchange for the country and stabilizing the economy.
Later the panelists responded to various queries from the participants during the Q&A session which was moderated by the trainee officer, Ms Sania Safdar who also earlier conducted the whole proceedings of the seminar.
Joint Secretary, Ministry of I&B, Mr. Arshad Muneer later gave away souvenirs to the worthy speakers. In his brief remarks he appreciated the efforts of ISA in holding the seminar as part of the Independence Day events, and on behalf of the Ministry of Information, assured of all out support for future academic activities.
Director General ISA at the end, thanked the speakers for enlightening the participants on various facets of the economy.
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