A two-day Islamabad Expo 2015 was organised by Islamabad Women Chamber of Commerce (IWCCI) in Islamabad on 18-19 April at Jinnah Convention Center.
The purpose of the exhibition was to increase market linkages of women entrepreneurs for the promotion of their products, networking and skill development. The expo also provided opportunities to those who cannot own or rent a shop.
Punjab Minister for Social Welfare Begum Zakia Shahnawaz said here on Saturday that the government strongly believes in women empowerment and taking concrete measures to encourage women entrepreneurs.
Speaking at inaugural session of Islamabad Expo-2015, she said the government has been encouraging women’s participation in all walks of life as it was necessary for sustainable development.
“This is our national duty to protect the interests of women and provide them equal opportunities without any discrimination to make them valuable citizens and productive members of the society,” she added.
Canadian High Commissioner Heather Cruden, also attended the event and said that Pakistani women were participating in all sectors and many of them had excelled in their respective fields, not only in Pakistan, but also on the international level which is very encouraging.
IWCCI Founder President Samina Fazil said the government has been empowering women through different initiatives to ensure their representation in all spheres of life.
Former VP FPCCI Naima Ansari said that the expo will be learning, shopping, and entertaining experience for the participants and also an opportunity for women to share their work and goals towards a prosperous future.