Senate Chairman Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani told delegates at the fourth All Pakistan Women Chambers Presidents International Conference in Islamabad that women chambers must now convert organizational growth into measurable economic outcomes. He described women’s economic empowerment as a strategic necessity for Pakistan’s sustainable development, not merely a question of equality.
Mr Gilani cited the establishment of more than 30 women chambers of commerce and industry nationwide as evidence of a growing shift in attitudes toward women’s role in nation-building. He urged these women chambers to evolve into professionally managed institutions that drive business growth, innovation and job creation across the country.
The conference brought together women presidents from chambers across Pakistan and high-level guests including the Chairman Pakistan Azerbaijan Chamber of Commerce Zafar Bakhtawari, patron Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, Islamabad Women Chamber chairperson Samina Fazil and the Senate Chairman’s advisor Ms Misbah Khar. Ambassadors from Germany and the Philippines attended, alongside commercial counsellors from Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Iran, Indonesia and other diplomatic missions.
Organisers hosted a gala dinner with musical performances as part of the event, which was supported by sponsors including United Business Group, D Watson, Capacity Analytics, D Rain and Flormar. Samina Fazil welcomed the guests and highlighted the perseverance of women traders and business leaders across Pakistan, calling on the government to provide clearer support for women-led enterprises.
Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari used his remarks to outline practical business challenges, pointing to high electricity tariffs and structural issues in the tax system that constrain manufacturing and exports. The Senate Chairman took note and assured full cooperation to address these impediments so that women chambers can contribute more effectively to national export growth and industrial output.
Mr Gilani paid tribute to the legacy of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, recalling landmark initiatives that advanced women’s participation in public life, including women studies centres, the First Women’s Bank, employment quotas and the Lady Health Worker programme. Drawing on his experience as Speaker, Prime Minister and now Chairman of the Senate, he said expanding women’s inclusion strengthens democratic institutions and accelerates development.
The Senate Chairman pledged ongoing support for legislative and regulatory reforms to make it easier for women entrepreneurs to do business, to reduce red tape, to improve access to public procurement and to strengthen legal protections. He presented shields to the visiting women presidents in recognition of their leadership and service.
Highlighting the importance of international links, Mr Gilani welcomed partnerships such as the Azerbaijan–Pakistan joint chamber and encouraged women chambers to pursue export-led growth, participate in global exhibitions and build trade partnerships. He urged the leadership of women chambers to think of themselves as leaders of a national movement, to strengthen governance, expand access, formalise mentorship networks and document measurable results.
Envisioning a Pakistan where women business leaders are a central pillar of economic progress, the Senate Chairman expressed confidence that coordinated efforts by women chambers will generate jobs, drive innovation and create sustained opportunities for future generations of women entrepreneurs.
