Senate chairman reaffirms support for trade bodies amid FPCCI concerns

Senate Chairman Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani met with a delegation led by Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), at the Parliament House today.

The meeting was attended by FPCCI Vice President Zaki Ijaz, Chairman Capital Office Karim Aziz Malik, Chairman Coordination Capital Office Sohail Hussain Malik, Momin Malik, Tariq Mahmood, and Omar Salim, executive members of the FPCCI.

During the meeting, Senate Chairman Gilani assured the FPCCI delegation of the Parliament’s full support in addressing the concerns of the business community. He emphasized the need to resolve ambiguiteis surrounding the tenure of trade bodies, stating that the Parliament would play its due role in this regard.

Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of FPCCI, expressed gratitude for the Senate Chairman’s assurance of cooperation. He highlighted the business community’s concerns over the government’s proposed reduction in the tenure of trade bodies.

Sheikh pointed out that trade bodies were initially granted a two-year mandate following the 2024 elections, but recent amendments have created uncertainty, causing unease among business stakeholders.

Sheikh underscored the importance of Parliament’s role in resolving such issues, noting that the legislative forum has historically played a pivotal role in addressing the concerns of the business community.

He urged the government to ensure consultation with stakeholders before making legislative changes, emphasizing that a one-year tenure is insufficient for elected representatives to fulfill their agendas.

The FPCCI President also mentioned that trade bodies and chambers have already rejected the proposed amendments to Section 11 of the Trade Organizations Act. He called for a collaborative approach to ensure that the concerns of the business community are adequately addressed.

At the conclusion of the meeting, Atif Ikram Sheikh presented a souvenir to Senate Chairman Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani.

The meeting underscored the importance of dialogue between the government and the business community to foster a conducive environment for economic growth and stability.

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