RAWALPINDI, Oct 21 (APP):Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Broadcasting, Barrister Danyal Chaudhry on Wednesday formally inaugurated the The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) Women’s Business & Lifestyle Expo.
The Expo features more than 40 stalls showcasing a diverse range of products and services offered by women entrepreneurs, including clothing, fashion, home décor, beauty products, jewellery, precious stones, boutique collections, herbal products and handicrafts.
Addressing the inaugural ceremony, Barrister Danyal said that women are an integral part of society and the national economy and play a vital role in the country’s development. He highlighted the growing participation of women in leadership positions.
“Punjab’s Chief Minister and various women holding key ministerial portfolios which reflect their expanding role in governance”, he said.
He expressed his desire to see more women entrepreneurs represented in the assemblies. He stated that he does not support reserved seats for women as the preferred approach, advocating instead for women to contest general elections and enter assemblies through direct public representation. He emphasized that Pakistani women are no less capable than anyone else and deserve opportunities to demonstrate their abilities.
Barrister Danyal Chaudhry said that the Women’s Business & Lifestyle Expo provides women entrepreneurs with valuable opportunities to promote their products, develop business connections, and explore new markets.
He congratulated RCCI and the organizing team on successfully arranging the event and assured the Chamber of his continued support and engagement in addressing the concerns of the business community.
Speaking on the occasion, RCCI President Nosherwan Khalil Khan said that creating new business opportunities for women entrepreneurs remains an important priority. He stated that the Expo provides women with a platform to introduce their products, connect directly with potential customers, strengthen business networks and expand their enterprises.
He added that RCCI remains committed to promoting women’s entrepreneurship, strengthening their role in economic activities, and facilitating greater access to business and market opportunities.
Chairperson of the Women’s Expo, Naila Tassadaq, said that the initiative aims to enhance the entrepreneurial capabilities of women, encourage innovation, and provide them with opportunities to showcase their products to a wider audience. She emphasized that such platforms help women entrepreneurs build networks, attract customers, and explore avenues for business growth.
RCCI Griup Leader Sohail Altaf said that economic improvement is possible through effective coordination and cooperation between the government and the business community. He stressed the importance of maintaining constructive engagement to address business challenges and promote economic activity.
Imran Ilyas, MPA on the occasion assured the businesswomen that he would play his role in the provincial assembly to highlight their concerns and advocate measures to address the challenges they face. He emphasized the need to create a supportive business environment that encourages women’s economic participation and entrepreneurship.
The Women’s Business & Lifestyle Expo 2026 reflects RCCI’s commitment to promoting women-led enterprises by providing a platform for product promotion, market access, networking, and business expansion. The two-day exhibition aims to encourage women’s economic empowerment, strengthen their participation in commercial activities, and contribute to the growth of the national economy.
Source: APP (Associated Press of Pakistan)
