Australia keen to support Pakistan’s female entrepreneurs: Heyward

Islamabad: The High Commissioner of Australia to Pakistan Mr. Peter Heyward on Wednesday said his country is keen to support Pakistani female entrepreneurs who are highly capable and resilient.

He said that the embassy of Australia and Islamabad Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IWCCI) will jointly push women empowerment initiatives and businessmen from his country would participate in upcoming Islamabad expo 2013.

Peter Heyward said this while talking to a function organised by IWCCI. Founder President IWCCI Samina Fazil, President IWCCI Farida Rashid, President AWCCI Firdosia Fazal, Ms. Raja, Naima Ansari association of beauticians and others were also present on the occasion. The High Commissioner informed of the recent developments particularly the positive economic growth and the growing business confidence by foreign investors which was an opportunity for Pakistani investors.

Wife of the envoy, Ms Suzzane Heyward said she looks forward to closer cooperation, partnership and exchange of delegations.

Women entrepreneurs play a vital role in economic development of any country, Pakistan needs to support women to bring the country back to economic growth, she said.

Suzzane added that she would do everything to assisting Pakistan women to improve their competitiveness which will enhance their revenue generating capacity.

Speaking on the occasion, Samina Fazil and Farida Rashid acknowledged the numerous positive developments in the Australia and agreed to work closely in furthering economic relations.

They stated that both the Embassy and the Chamber can work together on joint activities such as business seminars, and trade missions, among others.

Samina and Farida lauded the initiatives taken by SME Business Support Fund and demanded creation of an entrepreneurship support fund for women.