ISLAMABAD: Pakistani businesswomen on Sunday called on the government to adopt measures that promote women’s economic participation and provide them more opportunities, saying stronger inclusion of women in the workforce would support economic growth and help address the country’s fiscal challenges.
State Minister for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani held a meeting with representatives of nearly 40 women chambers of commerce and industry from across Pakistan at the Finance Division, during which the participants engaged in constructive discussions on federal budget-making process, entrepreneurship and measures to further strengthen the role of women in Pakistan’s economy.
“The participants shared their perspectives on challenges faced by women entrepreneurs and discussed proposals aimed at increasing women’s participation in economic activity and public policymaking,” the Pakistani finance ministry said in a statement.
“They highlighted the importance of skill development, enhanced access to Special Economic Zones, increased opportunities for women-led enterprises, and greater participation of women in human resource development initiatives. The delegation also shared recommendations for consideration as part of the ongoing budget preparation process.”
Pakistan, currently bolstered by a $7 billion International Monetary Fund (IMF) program, is set to announce the federal budget on June 10.
Kayani appreciated the valuable contribution of women entrepreneurs to the country’s economic development and acknowledged the increasingly important role being played by them across various sectors of the economy, according to his ministry.
He noted that the government remains committed to expanding opportunities for women and promoting their participation in economic and social development.
“Kayani listened to the concerns and suggestions put forward by the participants and assured them that their proposals would be carefully considered as part of the policymaking process,” the finance ministry said.
“He reiterated his support for initiatives aimed at women’s economic empowerment and assured the delegation of the Ministry’s continued cooperation in addressing issues affecting women-owned businesses.”
