PESHAWAR: The All Pakistan Commercial Exporters Association has announced to organise the ‘largest-ever’ gems, minerals and jewellery show of Pakistan in Islamabad from March 4 to 6.

The decision was taken at a meeting of the association’s executive committee held here the other day, according to a statement.

The association’s chairman Haji Dost Mohammad said a large number of traders and buyers related to gemstones from home and abroad as well as ambassadors of different countries would participate in the show.

He said foreign investors had stopped coming to Pakistan during the past some years due to the terrorism wave, and as a result, the business of precious stones was about to end. However, he added the local traders continued efforts to hold mineral shows every year, which attracted foreign investors to Pakistan.

Dost Mohammad expressed the hope that large number of investors from inland and abroad would participate in the show, which was being organised without any government support as in the past.

“We will invite the prime minister, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa caretaker chief minister, the governor and other provincial and federal ministers with the only aim to tell the locals and foreigners as to how much the nature had enriched Pakistan in general and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in particular.

He also appealed to the public to play role in making the show a success by ensuring their participation in the wonderful opportunity of showcasing Pakistan’s natural stones.

“The show will not only help develop the sector, but will also improve the image of Pakistan as a peaceful country, while also creating employment opportunities for local people.

Published in Dawn, February 14th, 2023