Chairman Senate Highlights Role of Business Community in Economic and Social Development
Karachi – 28 September 2026 (MT Team) : A luncheon was hosted in honour of Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani by Mr. Abdul Rahim Janoo (S.I.), Group Chairman, Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) and CEO, Hina Rice Export Company, in Karachi.
The luncheon was attended by former Prime Minister and former Chairman Senate Muhammad Mian Soomro, former Chairman REAP and CEO White Pearl Group Malik Muhammad Jahangir, Senior Vice Chairman REAP Jawaid Jillani, Chairman Tabani Group Hamza Tabani, and other prominent representatives of the business community.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani appreciated the important role being played by the business community in promoting economic activity, investment, employment and social development in the country. He emphasized the importance of continued interaction between Parliament, the government and the private sector to create greater opportunities for economic growth and public welfare.
Mr. Abdul Rahim Janoo briefed the Chairman on the role and activities of the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) and its contribution to the country’s economic development. He also apprised the Chairman that the REAP Annual Awards ceremony would be held later in the day, where the Chairman would have an opportunity to further interact with representatives of the rice-export sector and learn more about the Association’s activities and contributions.
Mr. Abdul Rahim Janoo also highlighted the philanthropic and social-welfare initiatives undertaken by the business community, particularly the healthcare services being provided through the Baba Farid Free Eye Camp in Pakpattan. The initiative provides free eye check-ups, diagnostic services, cataract surgeries, medicines and glasses to deserving patients.
Appreciating these initiatives, Chairman Senate emphasized the importance of extending such philanthropic healthcare services to other parts of the country and particularly requested that a similar free eye-care camp be organized in Multan for the benefit of deserving people in the region.
In response, Mr. Abdul Rahim Janoo announced that a similar free eye-care camp would also be organized in Multan, extending the philanthropic healthcare initiative to the city.
Chairman Senate appreciated the announcement and commended the business community for complementing government efforts through philanthropic initiatives and contributing to the welfare of deserving segments of society.
The participants also exchanged views on matters relating to business, investment, economic development and philanthropy, with the Chairman stressing the importance of continued cooperation between the public and private sectors to promote economic growth and improve social welfare.
