GUJRAT: Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan has said that the Makkah Agreement among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye can provide a foundation for collective defence, peace, stability and broader economic and technological cooperation.

He said Pakistan’s defence capability should serve the purpose of effective deterrence and peace, while strategic partnerships must be translated into economic growth, investment, trade, technology and industrial cooperation.

He was speaking as the chief guest at the annual general meeting of Gujrat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (Gtcci) on Saturday.

Earlier in Gujranwala, he also addressed a session at a private university.

The speaker said Pakistan must strengthen its national capacity through education, research, technology and a skilled workforce instead of relying excessively on external support. He said recent regional tensions had also highlighted the importance of modern technology and indigenous expertise for national security and self-reliance.

“Universities are not merely centres for awarding degrees; they are institutions for developing national leadership, research and practical capabilities,” he said.

He stressed the need for equipping students with an understanding of global developments and their impact on Pakistan’s economy, security and society.

Providing students with practical exposure, entrepreneurial opportunities and links with international institutions, he added, could better prepare them for the economy of the future.

The speaker said Pakistan had faced political instability, economic challenges, terrorism and shortcomings in education and infrastructure for decades, making it essential to pursue economic stability and human development alongside national security.

The people of the region, he said, wanted peace, development and prosperity rather than conflict, while strong defence and effective diplomacy could contribute to lasting peace.

He said cooperation among Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye should be expanded beyond defence to universities, research institutions, industry and the business community.

The outgoing GtCCI president, Ahmed Hassan Mattu, highlighted the performance and role of his team in promotion of local trade and industry across the globe as well as the facilities provided to the business fraternity at the GtCCI.

The speaker administered the oath to the newly-elected members of executive committee and other officials.

Published in Dawn, September 20th, 2026