ISLAMABAD – Prime Minister (PM) Imran Khan regretted that the oppositionthat had been criticizing the government for not observing completelockdown is now holding public gatherings.

Addressing a gathering of business community after inauguration of Air Sialairlines, lashing out at the opposition leaders, the prime minister saidthey criticised him for not declaring complete lockdown in the countryduring first wave of coronavirus and gave an example of India imposingcomplete lockdown but are now holding rallies as the pandemic’s second waverages on.

He also mentioned that the COVID-19 cases are on the rise, warning “If wedon’t take precautions, this winter will be difficult for us.” “Morecaution can save industry and people. It is our policy to provideincentives and remove barriers. ”

The premier assured that hurdles in the way of promotion of businesses willbe removed. He said special steps are being taken to encourage Small andMedium Enterprises. He said industrialization and increase in exports willlead to wealth creation and enhancement of foreign exchange reserves.

He expressed confidence that Sialkot, Gujranwala and Gujrat will become akey region of exports in the country. He congratulated the businesscommunity of Sialkot for building an airport and launching an airline withtheir own resources.

Referring to China’s model of inclusive development, Imran Khan said thebiggest objective of his government is to uplift the living standard of thepoor and bring backward areas at par with other parts of the country.