Islamabad: Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb emphasized the government's commitment to macroeconomic stability, investment facilitation and energy preparedness during a meeting with a delegation of the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) at the Ministry of Finance.
The RCCI delegation, led by Group Leader Sohail Altaf and President Usman Shaukat, held a detailed discussion with the Finance Minister regarding Pakistan's economic outlook, concerns of the business community and outcomes of the chamber's recent business outreach to the United States.
Welcoming the delegation, the Finance Minister appreciated RCCI's initiative to engage policymakers, business leaders and economic institutions in the United States, noting that such outreach helps present Pakistan's economic potential and strengthen commercial ties with international partners.
Senator Aurangzeb said the government had undertaken difficult but necessary measures to restore macroeconomic stability and improve economic fundamentals, which had helped rebuild investor confidence and stabilize key economic indicators.
He stated that the next phase of economic policy would focus on transforming stability into sustained investment, industrial activity and job creation.
Referring to the work of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), the Finance Minister said several initiatives had been launched to streamline approvals, improve regulatory coordination and facilitate investment in key sectors.
He stressed that investor confidence depends not only on macroeconomic indicators but also on policy predictability, continuity and efficient dispute resolution mechanisms.
On taxation and business facilitation, the minister emphasized the importance of regular engagement with chambers of commerce to ensure tax policies reflect economic realities and promote growth while maintaining fairness in the system.
He said the government is working to broaden the tax base, improve compliance through digital systems and enhance transparency in tax administration while addressing concerns raised by the business community.
The Finance Minister also briefed the delegation on the evolving global oil and energy situation, stating that ensuring uninterrupted availability of fuel and energy supplies across the country remains the government's immediate priority.
He said the federal government is closely coordinating with provincial authorities and relevant ministries to continuously monitor fuel stocks, supply chains and market conditions.
Aurangzeb added that the government is closely monitoring the availability of petrol, diesel, crude oil, LNG and LPG and is planning ahead to manage supply pressures caused by global uncertainties. He said energy conservation and prudent consumption measures are also being considered.
Earlier, RCCI President Usman Shaukat briefed the meeting on the chamber's recent visit to the United States, saying the delegation held 14 engagements in Washington DC and New York with US lawmakers, senators, economic development organizations and business chambers.
He said discussions focused on opportunities for cooperation in sectors including pharmaceuticals and healthcare, information technology, mining and minerals, steel, construction and automobiles.
According to him, US stakeholders encouraged Pakistani businesses to explore investment partnerships and joint ventures in addition to exports.
He also highlighted meetings with the US-Pakistan Business Council, US Department of State, Department of Commerce, SelectUSA and business organizations in New York and New Jersey, which he described as encouraging for future investment partnerships.
Members of the RCCI delegation emphasized the need for stronger export promotion, improved regulatory coordination and removal of procedural hurdles to facilitate investors and enhance ease of doing business.
The Finance Minister welcomed RCCI's outreach efforts and reaffirmed the government's commitment to economic reforms, investment promotion and business facilitation.