Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar Khan met with Chief Minister of Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti to discuss expanded cooperation between the federal and provincial governments for SME development. The meeting focused on practical measures to help micro, small and medium enterprises grow across Balochistan’s diverse economic sectors.
Haroon Akhtar Khan underlined that Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s vision prioritizes empowering SMEs and women entrepreneurs, and stressed that provinces must work together to scale the country’s micro, small and medium enterprise ecosystem. He highlighted Balochistan’s abundant opportunities and hardworking workforce as essential assets for national growth.
Both leaders agreed to form a joint task force to coordinate initiatives and streamline support for SMEs, with special attention to agriculture-based enterprises, livestock value chains and youth-led startups. The planned task force will aim to connect provincial strengths with federal resources to create market access and technical assistance for local businesses.
Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti reaffirmed the provincial government’s commitment to SME development and said the aim is to enable Balochistan residents to expand their businesses and compete in broader markets. Bugti emphasized that collaboration with the federal government will help bring targeted programs and investments to the province.
Haroon Akhtar Khan noted that promoting women’s business activity is a key element of the cooperation, and that empowering female entrepreneurs will be integrated into upcoming support measures. He also highlighted training and youth empowerment as central to sustainable SME development in the region.
Both sides envisaged that stronger SMEs in Balochistan will contribute to regional stability and provide a meaningful boost to the national economy. The meeting concluded with a commitment to regular coordination and implementation of the agreed initiatives to accelerate SME development across the province.
