Islamabad, November 19.2025: Special Assistant to the Prime Minister for Industry, Haroon Akhtar Khan has said that the federal government is committed to resolving women’s issues and providing facilities. The government is working to economically empower women through Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Addressing the International Women’s Entrepreneurship Day ceremony organized by FPCCI and SMEDA, he emphasized that women constitute over 50% of Pakistan’s population, and the country is currently utilizing only half of its workforce. He highlighted that women are working in all major airlines worldwide and urged them to play an active role in the country’s economic development.
FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh said that women are not only participants in the economic scene but also the driving force behind innovation and sustainable development. He praised Haroon Akhtar Khan’s vision and support for empowering women in SMEs and the business sector. He also acknowledged the efforts of Vice President Qurat-ul-Ain in empowering women.
He emphasized that Pakistan cannot progress by leaving half of its population behind, and the country’s economic future and sustainable development depend on women’s active participation. Women-led businesses are transforming industries, and despite challenges, women entrepreneurs are breaking barriers and creating jobs and developing brands.
FPCCI is committed to capacity building and training women entrepreneurs in collaboration with SMEDA.
SMEDA CEO Nadia stated that the government is committed to economically empowering women through SMEs, providing loans, and developing skills.
The ceremony was attended by notable business leaders, including Vice President FPCCI Qurat-ul-Ain, Tariq Jadoon, Chairman Capital Office Karim Aziz Malik, and Chairman Coordination and President Hafizabad Chamber Malik Sohail Hussain.
