Experts discuss economic difficulties, technology-based reforms, new provinces, terrorism and political dialogue

By Staff Reporter

ISLAMABAD: Editor-in-Chief Pakistan Group of Newspapers and Chairman Roze News SK Niazi, while speaking in his renowned talk show Sachi Baat, said capital outflow from the country was still ongoing, while capital transferred abroad in the past was also a big problem. Real estate business was also facing difficulties, as were the industrial sector and factories. There was pressure on various sectors of the economy, including exports, and practical steps were needed to improve the economic situation. Business relations between Pakistan and China were also important, with a need to further strengthen trade and business ties with China. A conducive environment was essential for investment and industrial development, while economic revival required focus on investment, industry and exports.Fundamental change was needed in the internal system, and benefit should be taken from the experience of senior leaders of political parties. Decisions should be made keeping in mind past experiences and current circumstances, with a need to move forward with political matters in a phased and realistic manner. Both experience and ground realities must be taken into account for reforms. Permanent and practical steps were necessary to improve the system, and progress could be made on the reform agenda despite political differences.Meetings with founders could be important for the negotiation process, while direct consultation with the founder was important within PTI. Political parties had their own requirements for internal decisions and consultations. PTI faced various challenges in political activities and public communication, while problems related to rallies and political activities were also under discussion. Effective communication between political parties was essential for negotiations, and serious progress was needed from both sides for the negotiation process.

Khurram Dastgir said the Prime Minister was working day and night for the country’s development. There were too many taxes in the country and corruption was a big issue. Corruption was limited to 20 to 25 percent in many countries of the world, while it was claimed that the rate of corruption in some sectors in Pakistan was very high. FIR and arrest alone were not enough to eradicate corruption. Systematic reforms were necessary, not the traditional approach. Technology, transparency and simplified procedures are essential to curb corruption and reduce the “time tax” on citizens, while government processes should be made fast, easy and technology-based. Red-tapism must be permanently eliminated through systematic reforms. New provinces require constitutional consensus, while local governments should be empowered with financial and administrative authority. On terrorism, the federation and provinces, particularly Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, must adopt a joint strategy, while dialogue and political engagement should continue to ensure peace and stability.

Azhar Siddique said the process of talks on political issues had not yet officially begun. There were different opinions within PTI on the issue of negotiations and reconciliation. Serious progress from both sides was necessary for negotiations. Political issues could be resolved through dialogue and constitutional procedures. There has been a need for meaningful political dialogue to resolve the current crisis, with political leadership urged to play a central role in negotiations and decision-making. Meetings should be turned into practical talks, while policymaking must reflect ground realities and public concerns. Provincial governments should address local issues seriously, with continued attention to law and order in Balochistan.

PPP leader Qadir Mandokhel said several meetings and sessions had been held regarding the negotiations. Several important sessions were held in the negotiation process, but despite talks, no final progress could be made on political issues. The people of Pakistan were waiting for the results of the talks. Political negotiations should be made more serious, fruitful and systematic, with a clear agenda and formal presentation of demands. Dialogue should continue without unnecessary conditions or pressure, while political differences must be resolved through constitutional means. Continued communication and cooperation among political parties are essential for addressing public issues and determining the future course of negotiations.

Azhar Siddique claimed that the notification was ready. Now it had to be seen what progress happened after the negotiation process. Talks were emerging of resuming negotiations. Government and opposition had different positions on resuming talks. Before resuming the negotiation process, reservations of both sides must be addressed. The situation was also a test for the government due to protests and political tension.After the announcement of September 27, a change in the protest date was also under discussion. Government and opposition should pursue dialogue to ease political tensions while respecting parliamentary traditions. Political differences should not hinder communication or turn into personal hostility. Political parties should prioritize public and national interests, promote tolerance and mutual respect, and keep parliamentary channels open despite differences.