KARACHI: Senator Dr. Afnan Ullah Khan emphasized the indispensable role of Karachi in Pakistan's economic ambitions, stating that the country's target of a PKR 1 trillion economy hinges on the development of this metropolitan hub. He underscored the city's economic potential and the quality of its human resources, highlighting the federal government's commitment to addressing Karachi's infrastructure needs.

According to Korangi Association of Trade and Industry, Senator Khan's remarks came during a meeting with industrialists and business leaders at their headquarters. He stated that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif at the helm, is focused on bolstering Karachi's development. The Senator invited the business community to play a collaborative role in this effort, particularly in addressing critical issues like electricity and water supply.

KATI President Sheikh Umer Rehan and other prominent members of the association were part of the dialogue. They expressed concerns over the challenges faced by Karachi's business community, including high energy costs that impact production and competitiveness in international markets. Rehan advocated for regular visits by federal ministers to the city, suggesting that such engagement could expedite problem resolution and enhance business confidence.

Deputy Patron-in-Chief Zubair Chhaya echoed these sentiments, linking Karachi's development to the broader progress of Pakistan. He called for focused development initiatives akin to those witnessed in Punjab under Nawaz Sharif's leadership. Chhaya also stressed the importance of revamping the country's railway system to provide cost-effective freight services, which could alleviate road traffic and reduce diesel imports.

The conversations underscored the need for federal attention to Karachi's issues, recognizing the city's substantial contribution to national revenue and its potential to drive economic growth.