ISLAMABAD: Trader leaders have urged the government to create a conducive environment for investors in order to ensure financial stability in the country. They said the business community was the backbone of the national economy, and in the current circumstances, it is facing challenges such as energy crisis, rising interest rates and policy instability. The trader leaders expressed these views while addressing participants of the Solar and Agricultural Exhibition organised by the Mardan Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industries. The event was attended by various business personalities, experts and members of the public from across the country. They urged the government to address these issues by taking practical steps to reduce business costs and ensure financial stability. “Incentives should be provided to small and medium enterprises, and opportunities must be created for them in international markets, said Patron-in-Chief of United Business Group (FPCCI) S.M. Tanveer. He also underlined the need for simplifying the tax system to enable businesses to grow and stabilise the economy. UBG Secretary General Zafar Bakhtawari said the business community of Mardan had proven through this event that Pakistan’s entrepreneurs were not only committed to improving the national economy but were also incorporating innovation in their fields by keeping up with modern demands. “The business community has always rendered its services for strengthening and developing the economy, no matter how challenging the circumstances,” Mr Bakhtawari said, adding that the business community provided a strong foundation for Pakistan’s economic development. However, he said to further strengthen this foundation, the government must urgently resolve their issues, provide incentives and ensure policy stability. “This is the time for us to come together, leverage our capabilities, and transform Pakistan into an economic powerhouse,” he added. He also praised the Mardan business community for organising an international-standard exhibition, proving that small cities in Pakistan have the potential to dream big and turn those dreams into reality. President of Mardan Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industries Taj Mohammad Khan emphasised that the business community of Mardan had always played its part in stabilising the national economy. “This exhibition reflects our efforts to promote modern practices in energy and agriculture,” he said. Ihsan Bacha highlighted that this event was not only a means to develop businesses in the region but also an excellent platform for providing future opportunities to the youth. Founder President of Talagang Chamber of Commerce Malik Shabbir Awan, Taj Mohammad Khan, Group Leader Ihsan Bacha, Haji Afzal, Javad Kazmi and Nawaz Manduri inaugurated the exhibition.