Islamabad: Prominent business leader and former president of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce, Shahid Rasheed Butt, has raised concerns about the increasing anxiety and uncertainty generated by global powers. Speaking on the current state of the world economy, Butt highlighted that new economic policies, strict trade tariffs, sanctions, an aggressive diplomatic approach, and military operations are contributing to a slowdown in global economic activity. Developing nations, including Pakistan, are particularly feeling the impact.

Butt elaborated that heavy tariffs, forced trade agreements, asset freezes, trade restrictions, and exclusion from the global financial system are driving countries to explore alternative currencies and payment mechanisms. Despite assurances against war, military actions in various regions are reportedly undermining investor confidence, delaying investments, and prompting businesses to exercise caution.

He further warned that fears of additional military operations in sensitive areas are destabilizing the global oil market, causing price volatility and supply concerns. Butt emphasized that while diplomacy is the only sustainable solution, its effectiveness is hindered under current conditions. He called on major global powers to engage in dialogue to avert possible nuclear confrontation and a prolonged global crisis, cautioning that failure to do so could result in significant consequences.