Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President FPCCI, has said that the recent economic stability and the marked improvement in macroeconomic indicators have been enabled by the improved external and internal security environment and made possible by Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Field Marshal Asim Munir through his strategic vision and leadership.
Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh commended the formation of the unified CDF command structure as a pivotal step in strengthening national defense. He noted that the armed forces’ cohesive strategy has made the country’s defense impregnable.
In this regard, the FPCCI Chief expressed unwavering support from the business community that the entire business community stands like a solid wall behind the armed forces. He reiterated that the traders and industrialists of Pakistan are ready to offer any sacrifice – financial or physical – alongside the soldiers to safeguard the motherland’s sovereignty.
Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, in honor of the martyrs (Shuhada), maintained that the peace and stability we enjoy today are the direct result of the bloodshed by our valiant soldiers. The nation can never repay the debt of its sacrifices. He specifically acknowledged the resilience of the families of the martyrs and the bravery displayed by troops in recent operations, such as Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, that successfully thwarted external aggression.
Mr. Sheikh highlighted the armed forces’ critical role in stabilizing the economy, particularly through initiatives such as the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). He noted that economic prosperity is inextricably linked to national security and praised the military leadership for their efforts to create a secure environment for foreign and domestic investment.
Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh’s message to Pakistan’s adversaries, concluding his statement, he warned anti-state elements and external aggressors that the Pakistani nation and its business community are united with their brave forces, and any attempt to harm the country would be met with a befitting and decisive response.
