Staff Report
ISLAMABAD: Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Friday praised the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) for its pivotal role in driving the country’s economic development and representing the voice of the business community at national and international levels.
Speaking at a high-profile event in Islamabad, the Governor acknowledged FPCCI as a vital institution that serves as the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, fostering public-private partnerships and providing critical input on policy matters, including the national budget.
The Governor paid tribute to Dr Afshan Malik at a formal ceremony organized by the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), recognizing her contributions to both national and international platforms.
Speaking as chief guest, Governor Kundi lauded Dr Afshan Malik’s leadership as Convener of FPCCI’s Diplomatic Standard Committee, crediting her with elevating Pakistan’s presence in global business and diplomatic circles. He said her rare spiritual honour of being appointed Khalifa at the revered shrines of Ajmer Sharif and Baghdad, calling it not only a personal achievement but a matter of national pride.
“Dr Afshan Malik is a symbol of vision, harmony, and leadership. Her achievements serve as a guiding light for all Pakistanis, especially women,” the Governor said. “Institutions like FPCCI are the backbone of our economy, and leaders like her are instrumental in steering Pakistan towards progress.”
Kundi assured the business community of continued support from the federal government and Governor House Peshawar, urging them to actively contribute budget proposals.
“The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) welcomes all constructive suggestions from the business sector,” he added.
The ceremony drew a large audience from the business fraternity, including FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh, philanthropist Zamurd Khan, social activist Hubba Chaudhry, Dr Amjad, and several FPCCI office-bearers. Attendees praised Dr Malik’s role in promoting economic diplomacy and spiritual leadership, marking her as a unique figure bridging commerce and culture.
The event concluded with a renewed call for public-private collaboration to strengthen Pakistan’s economic landscape.
Meanwhile, Chairman of the National Peace Force Committee for Interfaith Harmony, Mazhar Sakhawat Wattoo, called on Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, at the Governor’s House in Islamabad. Also present at the meeting was Syed Sibt Hassan, in-charge of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Central Secretariat.
During the meeting, the current law and order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and other relevant issues were discussed in detail.
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi emphasized the critical importance of promoting interfaith and sectarian harmony for the establishment of lasting peace in the province.
He highlighted that since assuming office as Governor, practical steps have been taken to promote interfaith and sectarian harmony, with the Governor House Peshawar being actively used as a platform for such initiatives.
Kundi reiterated that the PPP regards religious and sectarian harmony as a cornerstone for national progress and development.
Mazhar Sakhawat Wattoo lauded the efforts of Governor Faisal Karim Kundi in promoting peace and interfaith harmony and commended his proactive role in fostering unity across religious and sectarian lines.
