Former President Asif Ali Zardari Calls for Long-term Economic Planning Amidst Pakistan’s Severe Economic Crisis.
In the face of one of the worst economic crises in the country’s history, Asif Ali Zardari, former president and co-chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), stressed the need for collective thinking and the development of a long-term economic plan. Speaking at the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) in Lahore, Zardari emphasized the importance of formulating a comprehensive charter of economy that extends beyond the typical 5- to 10-year timeframe.During his address to representatives of businesses, Zardari urged participants to collaborate and devise a 50-year plan for Pakistan, stating, “If you are on board with this, we are with you. I need your will, thought process, and energy regarding what the world of tomorrow would look like.” He expressed his belief that the welfare of future generations should be the ultimate goal of economic planning, emphasizing the need to prioritize long-term sustainability over short-term bailouts.Zardari highlighted the potential for Pakistan’s prosperity, asserting that the upcoming generations deserve a better economy. He proposed a strategy where the government focuses on empowering its citizens to become economically successful before implementing taxation measures. “We need to work on the economy. I suggest that the government (first) make people rich and then tax them,” he stated.Reiterating the PPP’s commitment to supporting businesses, Zardari emphasized that while governments may come and go, the legacy of a leader is what truly matters. He emphasized the need for continuity in leadership and lamented the failure of previous administrations to recognize the immense potential of Gwadar as a catalyst for national development. Zardari highlighted his role in inking a development deal with China for Gwadar, emphasizing its importance as a prime opportunity for transforming the fortunes of the nation.Zardari also stressed the significance of increasing exports as a secure path to economic prosperity. Additionally, he pointed out that Sindh alone has the capacity to generate 150 megawatts of electricity from its canals, proposing the exploration of alternative energy sources instead of relying solely on costly dam projects. Zardari further mentioned that Pakistan possesses significant shale gas reserves in the energy sector, opening up opportunities for energy independence and economic growth.As Pakistan grapples with its ongoing economic challenges, Zardari’s call for long-term economic planning and his vision for sustainable development have ignited discussions among business representatives and policymakers. The formulation of a comprehensive charter of economy and the pursuit of strategies that prioritize future generations could potentially reshape Pakistan’s economic landscape and pave the way for a more prosperous future.