GILGIT: A six-day exhibition aiming to empower women and expand women’s businesses by facilitating their access to the national and international markets concluded in Karimabad, Hunza, on Thursday.

Organised by the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Gilgit division, the event titled ‘Summer Exhibition’ featured embroidered rugs, table runners, gems and jewellery, clothing for men, women and kids, pottery, paintings, footwear, women health and hygiene products, local handicrafts and other traditional items.

More than 50 women entrepreneurs from various cities of Pakistan participated in the exhibition, where stalls of local and international brands were set up. The objective of the event was to increase commercial exchange between entrepreneurs from different provinces, identify the available opportunities in investments and economic growth and open new markets for different products

More than 50 businesswomen from various cities participate in the exhibition

Speaking at the event, WCCIGD founder president Khushnoor Didar said the women chamber gave an opportunity to the local women to expand their businesses. The purpose of organising the exhibition was to expand the women business and develop joint ventures with women entrepreneurs of other cities, she added.

Former head of academics for GB Taj Unnisa, who was the chief guest at the closing ceremony, appreciated the efforts of women and congratulated the WCCIGD team on forming the chamber and organising a big event.

She expressed the hope that the women chamber would continue to arrange such festivals and exhibitions to encourage women entrepreneurs. She suggested that such events be held twice a year.

The representatives of local community, town management society and social welfare of Karimabad also attended the exhibition and appreciated the determination and work of the local women. They pledged support for the chamber in their future endeavours.

Asiya Bano thanked the organisations for their support to make the event successful and the exhibitors who came from Punjab and Sindh.

Earlier, former federal minister and central leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan also attended the event and praised the women chamber for organising the show. She promised her support for the chamber in promotion of business by women entrepreneurs.

Published in Dawn, July 9th, 2022