Business-friendly policies are crucial for promoting economic activities: Maryam

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif met with a delegation of the Chain Store Association of Pakistan and said, “Business-friendly policies are crucial for promoting economic activities.” The meeting resulted in an in-principle decision to organise a ‘Shopping Festival’ in Punjab.

“I want to work in close collaboration with the business community,” she said, adding that “actionable suggestions will be implemented to support business growth.”

The chief minister announced, “The first shopping festival will be held in Lahore in collaboration with chain stores.” She also reviewed a proposal to create an annual calendar for store working hours across Punjab. “I am Pakistani at heart and proudly use Pakistani brands. The Horse and Cattle Show will be revived in Lahore with a fresh and innovative approach.”

Earlier, the delegation briefed the chief minister on various suggestions and recommendations to boost business activities in the province.

Meanwhile, Maryam inaugurated the annual “Chrysanthemum” exhibition at the Jilani Park on Thursday. The chief minister admired the vibrant varieties of chrysanthemums and inspected various models adorned with the flowers. She also posed for photographs in front of a camel-shaped model and a flower-laden cart made entirely of chrysanthemums.

PHA Director General Muhammad Tahir Wattoo briefed the chief minister on the exhibition, which will run for 10 days at the Jilani Park. He said, “Around 200 rare and unique varieties of colourful chrysanthemums have been showcased in the exhibition.”

Wattoo said, “A light show featuring electric illuminations will be presented every evening. These rare chrysanthemums are cultivated throughout the year in PHA nurseries to prepare them for this event.” He added, “The lifespan of these flowers is 15 to 20 days, and they bloom at their peak in the first week of December.”

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said, “Flowers are a universal symbol of peace and love. People from Lahore and other cities should visit this chrysanthemum exhibition.” The chief minister also inaugurated the PHA Commercial Nursery.