The Chairman of National Business Group Pakistan, President of Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, All Karachi Industrial Alliance, and former provincial minister, Mian Zahid Hussain, said on Monday that every government in Pakistan has prioritised loans and aid over investment. He said the entire nation is suffering because policymakers have the wrong priorities, and now the country cannot survive without begging.

Speaking to the business community, the veteran business leader stated that every government has always relied on tall claims instead of practical work. He said that most countries consider Pakistan a beggar, while creditors are also tightening their terms due to negative perception. However, the current government is prioritising investment during a period of significant economic damage.

Most of the business community still thinks improvements are possible, which calls for actions in the right direction.

Mian Zahid Hussain said that the frustration of the business community, stock market, IMF, and friendly countries is decreasing due to the current government’s actions.

We should take advantage of Saudi investors’ commendable interest in Pakistan. Saudi investors want to invest in their favourite sectors, but our policymakers’ job is to attract them to the sectors Pakistan needs most.

The Saudi Crown Prince is also upset with Pakistan’s red tape obstacles and has expressed this at the highest level, so SIFC should not allow any hindrance to investment.

Mian Zahid Hussain added that the country’s economic condition is neither able to withstand the shocks of the mafia nor stable enough to withstand failed experiments; therefore, it is necessary to work very carefully in the shortest possible time.

He demanded that those sacrificing the economy for their gain face such severe consequences that no one can consider similar actions in the future, thereby enhancing the country’s reputation and providing relief to the populace.