| Lahore: To promote business activities and boost the local economy, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced the launch of Lahore’s first-ever shopping festival. During a meeting with the Chainstore Association of Pakistan, the chief minister emphasized the importance of business-friendly policies in fostering economic growth.
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“We need to create an environment that supports economic activities, and this shopping festival is just the beginning,” Maryam Nawaz said, underlining the government’s commitment to supporting local businesses. She expressed her desire to work closely with the business community, adding, “Actionable suggestions will be implemented for the promotion of business.”
The announcement came as the chief minister reviewed a proposal to establish an annual calendar for store operating hours in Punjab, aimed at streamlining business practices across the region. A decision in principle was also made to host shopping festivals annually, with the first one planned for Lahore.
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The chief minister’s engagement with the business community marks a significant step toward revitalizing Lahore’s retail sector and creating a vibrant economic environment. “I want to take the business community along,” Maryam Nawaz added, further emphasizing the importance of collaboration for achieving sustainable economic growth.
During the meeting, she also expressed her support for Pakistani brands, saying, “I am Pakistani at heart, I use Pakistani brands.” In addition to the shopping festival, she revealed plans to reintroduce the Horse and Cattle Show in a new, modernized format, providing another platform to boost local trade and cultural activities.
As part of her visit, the chief minister inaugurated the annual chrysanthemum exhibition at Jilani Park. The event, showcasing around 200 rare varieties of chrysanthemums, is set to run for 10 days and features a nightly light show. The exhibition highlights the importance of flowers as symbols of peace and love, attracting both local and visiting tourists.
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This multifaceted approach aims to enhance both the cultural and economic vibrancy of Lahore, with the shopping festival serving as a key initiative for supporting local businesses and economic development in the region. |
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