Business Leaders Endorse Military’s Call for Security and Political Neutrality

KARACHI: The business community in Pakistan has expressed support for the recent statements by Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, the Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), regarding the importance of security and political neutrality for fostering economic stability. Mian Zahid Hussain, a prominent figure in the business sector, underscored the necessity of stability across security, political, and institutional domains as the foundation for sustainable economic growth.

Mr. Hussain, who holds various leadership roles including President of the Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum, emphasized the value the business community places on political neutrality and professionalism. He noted that this commitment helps reduce speculative risks in a politically sensitive economy, thereby enhancing market predictability and supporting democratic stability.

Addressing the issue of terrorism, Mr. Hussain highlighted its dual impact as both a security and economic challenge. He stressed that instability increases business costs and diverts resources away from development. He expressed support for the DG ISPR’s call for a unified national response and strong government actions to implement the National Action Plan and improve the justice system.

Mr. Hussain called on all stakeholders to prioritize national cohesion and economic recovery over partisan interests. He highlighted the need for political leaders to ensure consistent policies and structural reforms, in tandem with the security forces’ commitment to protection.

The business community, Mr. Hussain said, fully supports the Pakistan Army’s commitment to security. He pointed out that the DG ISPR’s identification of weaknesses in the judicial system, political collusion, terror financing, and the influence of neighboring countries, alongside large-scale poppy cultivation, is timely. He emphasized the importance of national unity in addressing these challenges to attract foreign investment and ensure peace and prosperity for the public.