Islamabad: President Asif Ali Zardari emphasized the importance of financial autonomy for women and advocated for increased access to financial services and credit to bolster female entrepreneurship during a meeting with Mr. Bill Winters, Group Chief Executive of Standard Chartered Bank (SCB), and his delegation at Aiwan-e-Sadr today.

According to Pakistan Peoples Party, The President discussed the critical role that economic empowerment plays in strengthening women financially, which in turn uplifts their families and contributes positively to the national economy. He urged banks to support women entrepreneurs and enhance their representation within the banking sector.

During the discussions, The SCB delegation briefed President Zardari on the bank’s contributions to the economic development of Pakistan, The evolution of the banking industry, and the socio-economic growth of the country. The President praised SCB’s long-standing involvement in Pakistan, particularly noting its 160 years of operations that have significantly shaped the banking sector.

President Zardari also highlighted various environmental initiatives undertaken by the government, including the trading of carbon credits earned through mangrove forestation by the Government of Sindh. He encouraged SCB to consider investments in climate-related sectors and agricultural financing, which could support infrastructure projects like small dams, barrages, and power plants, thereby increasing farmers’ access to agricultural inputs.

The President expressed hope that Standard Chartered Bank would continue to play a pivotal role in the economic landscape of Pakistan and further expand its operations within the country.