LAHORE, Oct 09 (APP): Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan has stressed the need for political stability, investment and private-sector growth to strengthen Pakistan’s economy, reduce poverty and create employment opportunities.
Speaking to the media at the 26th International Poultry Exhibition (IPEX 2026) here on Friday, he said the participation of local and international companies, investors, experts and industry representatives highlighted the poultry sector’s economic significance and potential for further growth.
He said the industry supported a wide range of activities, including poultry medicines, machinery, egg production, processing, exports and domestic marketing.
Such exhibitions, he added, provided a platform for business networking, technology exchange and investment opportunities.
Referring to the Chinese pavilion and the display of modern equipment and processing plants, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan said stronger international business ties and a favourable investment climate were essential for economic development. He said private-sector growth could generate employment, particularly for young people, and strengthen the national economy.
He observed that the government alone could not provide jobs for the entire population, making private investment and sustained commercial activity essential to addressing the country’s economic challenges.
Highlighting provincial initiatives, he referred to housing and sanitation schemes, including programmes aimed at helping low-income families secure housing. Such initiatives, he said, could help meet public needs and improve living standards.
Commenting on political protests, the Speaker said peaceful expression of political differences was part of the democratic process, but protests should not bring business activities, public movement or education to a standstill.
He said road closures and disruptions to commercial activities imposed hardships on ordinary citizens and adversely affected economic activity.
He condemned violence, damage to public and private property, and attacks on sensitive installations, stressing that the state had a responsibility to protect citizens, places of worship, national assets and business centres.
He said political differences should be resolved through dialogue and constitutional and legal channels rather than confrontation.
Regarding education, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan welcomed the use of modern technology, digital teaching methods and artificial intelligence in public schools.
He said such initiatives could help prepare students for future challenges, while school closures caused by protests risked disrupting their education.
He urged political leaders to keep dialogue open and resolve national issues through constitutional means. He said political engagement and the continuity of economic and educational activities were essential to addressing the country’s challenges and creating better opportunities for the public.
Congratulating the organisers and participants of IPEX 2026, the Speaker said exhibitions of this kind helped bring businesses together, showcase new technologies and strengthen commercial ties. He expressed hope that greater investment, increased private-sector participation and political dialogue would contribute to economic growth and create more employment opportunities in Pakistan.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
