The Islamabad Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industries celebrated Independence Day with a prominent ceremony attended by business leaders and government officials. Deputy Chairman Senate Sayedal Khan Nasir served as the chief guest, addressing a large gathering of the business community and reaffirming the importance of national unity and the pivotal role traders play in Pakistan’s economy.
During his speech, the Deputy Chairman emphasized that the shared identity of Pakistan binds citizens from Khyber to Karachi, uniting the nation. He highlighted the vital contribution of traders to the country’s development, paying tribute to their courage and resilience during challenging times. He underscored the need to support women’s participation in trade organizations and assured the audience that the government is committed to resolving traders’ challenges, hinting at forthcoming positive news for the business sector.
Sayedal Khan Nasir also pledged his continued support to the Chamber, promising that his office will always remain accessible to address their concerns. He honored the sacrifices of national martyrs and particularly acknowledged the patriotism and contributions of the people of Balochistan. He remarked on the significance of Gwadar, stating that the port city holds the key to changing Pakistan’s destiny, and called for a message of unity to resonate from Gwadar to Gilgit. He encouraged the media to highlight Pakistan’s positive image worldwide and to resist negative propaganda that could harm provincial harmony.
The Deputy Chairman praised the Pakistan Army’s bravery in defending the nation, expressing confidence that the country would achieve similar success in strengthening its economy. He assured that the fight against terrorism would continue until peace is secured and that Pakistan’s enemies would be defeated. Expressing prayers for those guarding the nation’s borders, he voiced faith in continued divine support for Pakistan.
Acting President of the Chamber, Sheikh Tayyab Saeed, reiterated the significance of the homeland to individual and collective identity, emphasizing that without the country, nothing else remains. He pointed out that the Chamber represents 60,000 traders, including 3,000 registered members, and urged the government to involve traders in policy-making processes, as they have firsthand knowledge of their sector’s challenges.
Senior Vice President Sardar Zaheer noted that while the event focused on celebrating independence, a detailed discussion of issues would be scheduled for a future meeting.
Mian Rashid Humayun, Chairman CIBEO Pakistan and a prominent business leader, also addressed the audience, expressing gratitude to the Deputy Chairman Senate for commemorating Independence Day with the business community in Islamabad.
The ceremony concluded with a cake-cutting event and the presentation of a commemorative shield to the chief guest.
