Rawalpindi: Advisor to the Chief Minister Punjab on Artificial Intelligence and Special Initiatives, Ali Mustafa Dar, visited the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI), where he was warmly received by RCCI President Usman Shaukat, Vice President Fahad Barlas, former presidents, and members of the Executive Committee.
Prominent participants included Chairman Ring Road Development Committee Syed Asad Mashhadi, Vice Chairman Saqib Rafiq, Saboor Malik, Vice President FPCCI Tariq Jadoon, Senior Vice President Small Chamber Dost Jan, and representatives of various trade bodies including Shahid Ghafoor Paracha, Arshad Awan, Munir Baig Mirza, and Chaudhry Iqbal, along with stakeholders from multiple sectors.In his welcome address, RCCI President Usman Shaukat highlighted that the Rawalpindi Ring Road is a mega development project and stressed the urgent need for establishing economic and industrial zones to transform the city into a major hub of trade and economic activity.
He urged the government to fast-track land acquisition and formally announce these zones during the upcoming inauguration of the Ring Road by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.Chairman Ring Road Committee Syed Asad Mashhadi briefed the delegation on the project, stating that the development of economic and industrial zones along the Ring Road would help reduce urban congestion by relocating wholesale markets, grain markets, transport hubs, and warehouses. He noted that the initiative would unlock growth in key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, furniture, marble and granite, footwear, gems and jewelry, housing, and construction.Addressing the gathering, Ali Mustafa Dar termed this his first visit to Rawalpindi after assuming office. He stated that the government has maintained a strong focus on economic development, with key indicators showing improvement. He emphasized that Pakistan must now capitalize on recent diplomatic gains to attract foreign direct investment.Highlighting his mandate, he shared that the Chief Minister has entrusted him with responsibilities related to artificial intelligence and special initiatives, focusing on eliminating bureaucratic hurdles and ensuring a result-oriented governance approach.
He announced the establishment of a state-of-the-art AI Delivery Unit, describing it as a globally unique initiative. Expected to be launched next month, the unit aims to drive transformative governance and development, with an estimated investment potential of $5–6 billion. He added that Punjab will transition towards an AI-driven governance model by leveraging the country’s talent pool.Ali Mustafa Dar further revealed that Rawalpindi will be the first city where an economic and industrial zone will be developed under the Central Business District (CBD) and Smart Rawalpindi vision.
He also announced the formation of a dedicated working group to ensure effective coordination and implementation.During the interactive session, business leaders presented key proposals and concerns. Shahid Ghafoor Paracha suggested revising business hours to 10:00 PM and extending restaurant timings. Zahid Latif Khan proposed relocating the Commodity Exchange to Lahore, while Arshad Awan emphasized the need to ensure respect for the business community and improve public service delivery.
