Pakistani Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gillani endorses Economic Freedom

The Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit together with its regional partner SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) intensifies the debate on Economic Freedom in South Asia

He assured a gathering of about 500 prominent businessmen from the South Asian region that his government in Pakistan was determined to play the role of a facilitator rather than a regulator. His government would ensure that the barriers to economic growth were removed paving the way for a free trade area in the region.

The President of SCCI, Tariq Sayeed introducing the concept of Economic Freedom to the private sector, mentioned that if South Asia was to grow, it would have to follow the path of Economic Freedom.

Peter-Andreas Bochmann, Resident Representative FNSt in Pakistan, welcomed the guests on behalf of Friedrich Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit. He took pride in FNSt’s years long partnership with SCCI. This long lasting partnership was always focused on promoting Economic Freedom in order to ensure a better living especially for the millions of poor in South Asia. Only Economic Freedom can transform the region into a hub of economic growth which simultaneously will help to guarantee other freedoms, liberty and human rights. Besides, trade and economic interaction will help to make the region more peaceful and strong for the challenges of globalization.

The seminar was organized on the occasion of the 43rd Executive Committee Meeting of the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI). The seminar received wide-coverage from the media, both electronic and print media of Pakistan.