Report: ANI Correspondent
ISLAMABAD– Acting President Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani on Wednesday said Pakistan’s democratic strength, economic progress and social cohesion could not be fully realized without equal participation of women in shaping the country’s institutions, economy and future.
Addressing the Pakistan Women Leadership and Policy Summit 2026, organized by the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), Gillani said women must be empowered not only as beneficiaries of development but also as entrepreneurs, professionals, policymakers, innovators and leaders.
He said the true measure of Pakistan’s progress would be whether women, regardless of their background or region, had equal access to education, finance, technology, markets and decision-making.
“The challenge before us is not whether women can lead, but whether we are prepared to create systems that allow them to lead, succeed and shape Pakistan’s future,” he said.
Gillani highlighted the contributions of prominent Pakistani women, including Fatima Jinnah, Begum Rana Liaquat Ali Khan, Begum Shaista Ikramullah and former Prime Minister Shaheed Benazir Bhutto.
The Acting President called for a practical agenda focused on access to finance, digital inclusion, women-led enterprises, safe workplaces, leadership development, mentorship and stronger market linkages.
He urged financial institutions, educational institutions, the private sector and chambers of commerce to play their role in removing barriers and creating equal opportunities for women.
“Women’s empowerment is not a narrow social concern. It is central to national development,” Gillani said.
He added that when women participate fully in economic life, nations advance, while their meaningful participation in policymaking makes democracy more representative, responsive and just.
