LAHORE – Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan called for stronger industrial cooperation, technological innovation and a secure investment environment, saying Pakistan cannot achieve sustainable economic growth without addressing terrorism, environmental pollution and barriers to industrial development.
Speaking at the inauguration of the 10th Pakistan Industrial Expo at Expo Centre Lahore, he welcomed growing collaboration between Pakistani and Chinese businesses and expressed confidence in the country’s potential to expand manufacturing through modern technology.
The exhibition brought together 156 companies from Pakistan and China, showcasing products, industrial equipment and technological solutions from various sectors. Organised by Everest International, the event will continue until November 16, 2026.
Everest International CEO Yousuf Fa, COMSATS University Lahore Campus Director Dr Qaiser, Everest Deputy General Manager Zishan Hashmi and representatives of the business community attended the inaugural ceremony.
Speaker praised Pakistani industries and academic institutions for their progress in science and technology, stressing that innovation and investment were essential for improving economic productivity and creating employment opportunities. He particularly highlighted the potential of artificial intelligence to transform agriculture, healthcare and manufacturing, noting that cooperation with Chinese companies could accelerate Pakistan’s transition towards advanced industrial production.
Addressing the worsening environmental situation in Lahore, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan said air pollution could not be controlled through short-term campaigns or isolated government measures. He warned that even if Pakistan adopted Beijing’s pollution-control strategy, achieving substantial improvements could require at least a decade of uninterrupted efforts.
The Speaker emphasised that tackling smog demanded consistent policies, coordinated institutional action and long-term commitment.
Turning to national security, he said terrorism remained one of the greatest threats to economic stability, as attacks could disrupt industrial activity and discourage both domestic and foreign investment. He described Pakistanis investing their resources in the country as national heroes, arguing that their contribution to economic development deserved recognition and protection.
Praising the government and the Field Marshal for their efforts against militancy, he called for a decisive response to terrorism and rejected the notion that armed violence could be justified as political activity. He also criticised the distinction between so-called good and bad Taliban, insisting that terrorism must be addressed without exceptions.
Discussing democratic governance, Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan emphasised that consultation and public participation were fundamental to constitutional decision-making. He said Parliament and provincial assemblies must exercise their responsibilities within the framework established by the Constitution while respecting the views of citizens.
Referring to proposals for creating new provinces, he questioned the wisdom of proceeding with major administrative changes without securing support from the people directly affected. On regional affairs, the Speaker criticised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s political approach, arguing that it had contributed to tensions and divisions between the two countries.
However, he maintained that Pakistan and India’s differences were not necessarily permanent and highlighted the economic benefits that improved bilateral trade could bring to the region. He also warned against the use of force to alter another country’s territorial boundaries, saying Pakistan would respond firmly to any aggression.
