December 26, 2007	Wednesday	Zilhaj 15, 1428

LAHORE, Dec 25: The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) on Tuesday urged the government to ensure free, fair, and impartial general elections for political stability, promotion of democracy and economic development in the country.

FPCCI president Tanvir Ahmad Sheikh told newsmen that in the prevailing scenario worldwide, the survival of the country or any nation depends on sound economy which, he added, was only possible through implementation of consistent economic policies by a politically stable elected government.

He said that peaceful transfer of power, coupled with better law and order, is also another key factor to attract foreign investment in different sectors which he observed would restore the confidence of foreign and local investors.

Tariq Sayeed, Co-Chairman of the Businessman Panel, an alliance of chambers and trade associations, said transparent elections would help pave way for accelerating the pace of development and boost trade activities in the country.

Founder-president of Pakistan-US Business Council Iftikahr Ali Malik said that the government should give a fair chance to all political parties to freely participate in the independent general elections.

He said ill-planned power and gas load-shedding, without the consultation with chambers, was playing havoc with national economy and putting an additional financial burden on the industry. He maintained that the input cost had increased manifold, creating difficulties for Pakistani exporters to compete in international market.

Iftikhar said that fair elections would ensure rapid economic development, prosperity, progress and promote national cohesion.—APP