FPCCI Engages in Crucial Talks on Water Security with Government

Karachi: Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), has reiterated the organization’s commitment to sustainable economic growth by participating in a significant meeting on national water security held by the Ministry of Water Resources. Representing the FPCCI, Mr. Sheikh and Senior Vice President Mr. Saquib Fayyaz Magoon highlighted the vital link between effective water management and industrial success.

The meeting, chaired by Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, Mr. Mehar Ali Shah, included key figures such as the Chairman of the Indus River System Authority (IRSA), Mr. Amjed Saeed, and senior officials from the Water and Power Development Authority (WAPDA). This gathering addressed the pressing water challenges faced by Pakistan, emphasizing the need for solutions across agriculture, industry, energy, and urban sectors.

Mr. Sheikh stressed that water security is fundamental to Pakistan’s economic resilience and expressed readiness from the business community to collaborate with the government. He advocated for innovative solutions and sustainable practices to protect industries and livelihoods over the long term.

He further emphasized the importance of optimizing existing water resources through loss reduction, demand management, and fair distribution among provinces to maintain economic activities. Investments in infrastructure like dams and irrigation networks were highlighted as necessary to mitigate the effects of flood and drought cycles on trade and industry.

Mr. Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, Senior Vice President of FPCCI, discussed exploring private sector involvement in funding large-scale water projects to enhance infrastructure efficiency. He detailed collaborative approaches involving government, industry, academia, and civil society to create strategies supporting export-oriented sectors reliant on a steady water supply.

Mr. Magoon noted the importance of integrated water governance and FPCCI’s commitment to policies that foster a water-secure environment, which is crucial for national growth and global competitiveness.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to view water as a strategic national asset, with FPCCI pledging continued advocacy and support from the business community to accelerate necessary reforms.