Abdul Hadi Mayar Islamabad
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister has said that preferential trade agreements and reforms in logistics and border management are essential steps for a unified and prosperous South Asia.
He was addressing the SAFA Conference 2025 “South Asia’s Economic Outlook: Challenges & Opportunities” held in Islamabad on Friday under the aegis of South Asian Federation of Accountants.
He said the strength of South Asian nations lied in unity and our future depends on the decisions we make today.
“Governance and policy reforms are no longer optional, they are imperative. For Pakistan, this means addressing structural bottlenecks, strengthening institutions, and ensuring transparency and accountability at every level,” he said.
Dar asserted that Pakistan’s ongoing reforms in tax policy, public financial management, and regulatory frameworks aim to create an environment conducive to business and investment. I believe that sharing insights and best practices at this forum will help us chart a path toward more effective governance across the region.
He said the real impediments to Growth- South Asia is one of the least integrated regions in terms of trade. Despite being home to nearly 25% of the world’s population, intra-regional trade remains less than 5% of our total trade volume.
“In Pakistan, we recognize the need to address trade barriers-both tariff and non-tariff-to unlock our export potential.”
He said he was confident that the outcomes of this conference will serve as a cornerstone for a stronger, more prosperous, and resilient South Asia.
“From Pakistan’s perspective, this conference comes at a critical juncture. Our economy, like many others in the region, has faced formidable challenges-ranging from global economic uncertainties, the impact of climate change, and the need for robust governance to navigate these turbulent times. Yet, it is also a moment of opportunity.”
Dar said Pakistan had embarked on a journey of reforms and transformation, aimed at stabilizing our economy and fostering sustainable growth.
“We are focused on creating an ecosystem that supports investment, promotes exports, and harnesses the potential of our human capital. Our Strategic Trade Policy Framework, energy diversification initiatives, and digital transformation agenda are just a few examples of our commitment to building a resilient economy.”
He said, “energy security is vital for economic stability. In Pakistan, the energy crisis has long been a challenge, but it is also an area where immense opportunity lies.”
“With one of the largest untapped renewable energy potentials in the world-solar, wind, and hydropower-we are committed to diversifying our energy mix.”
The Deputy Prime Minister said the regional sharing of innovations and expertise in renewable energy can help South Asia collectively reduce dependency on fossil fuels and embrace a greener, sustainable future.
