'Investment, exports, jobs on agenda'

Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb said on Thursday that macroeconomic stability has become firmly established and reforms are now being put into practice, according to The Express Tribune. He made the remarks in a message marking Pakistan's 79th Independence Day. He linked rising economic and investor confidence to stronger fiscal and external fundamentals.

According to the minister, the government will now concentrate on speeding up growth, drawing in investment, widening exports and generating employment. He said the people of Pakistan are the country's greatest asset and that developing young people, women, entrepreneurs, farmers, workers and innovators through skills would support future expansion. Aurangzeb added that the aim is to convert stability into wider growth and better living standards, while noting that much remains to be done.

He said the direction was clear, but sustaining progress would depend on staying the course, working together and believing in the nation's capacity. He also honoured the vision and sacrifices of the country's forefathers and recommitted to building a Pakistan that is stronger, wealthier and more inclusive.