Newly-elected PM urged to focus on economy

LAHORE: Newly-elected Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi should practically apply his abilities to improve the economic condition and governance so that his 10-month tenure could be remembered by the public.

These views were expressed by the experts in Jang Economic Session on ‘Start of Abbasi Era - Economic Challenges’. The panellists were Dr Pervaiz Tahir, Rabia Sultan, Qaisra Sheikh, Imran Afzal, Sohail Lashari and Akbar Sheikh while the session was hosted by Sikandar Lodhi.

Dr Pervaiz Tahir said that improvement in the Pakistan’s economy should not be expected in the next decade due to its poor condition. He said political and economic uncertainty could exist in next year which will be the election year. He said no political burden on the new prime minister is a good thing so he should focus on country’s economy. Progress of housing sector is a good omen while increase in debts and inflation is not good for country, he observed. He said water crisis is a serious issue and separate ministry for it may improve the situation.

Rabia Sultan said that new prime minister should focus on economic-oriented policies for fast recovery. She called for prioritising energy, and water crisis while the issues faced by agriculture sector are deplorable. She said exports are on the decline due to decrease in cotton production which could be increased with quality seeds and good crop price to farmers.

Qaisra Sheikh said the new prime minister should cater the needs of 200 million people instead of party. She suggested that the prime minister should use his powers to implement the decisions. She believed that any drama by the prime minister will disappoint the public and if steps would not be taken for industry and trade and then it will be destroyed. Increase in cabinet size will further burden the economy, she opined.

Imran Afzal said that big targets of growth could not be achieved as the tenure of the prime minister is little and apparently to protect the party and win the next election. He said raising expectations with Abbasi tenure is incorrect rather nation should also contribute its share. He called for ending dependency on loans for strong and stable economy.

Sohail Lashari said that Pakistan was unable to fix its political and economic direction. He believed that national interest policies should be long-term irrespective of government tenures. He called for comprehensive electoral reforms for better governance while effective agricultural and industrial policies are crucial for economic growth.

Akbar Sheikh said demand of internal and external situation is that the prime minister immediately starts performing his duties with honesty and dedication. He said effective economic policy was not evolved. He called for focus on agriculture which supports the economy. He said cotton is cash crop but neglected while establishment of sugar mills in cotton growing areas is wrong, rather to increase cotton crop in accordance with industrial requirements.