Steps be taken to give regular industry status to the gemstones sector: PM Shehbaz

ISLAMABAD, May 22 (SABAH): Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has directed for a comprehensive action plan regarding gems and precious stones sector for optimum utilization of these resources in the country.

PM Shehbaz Sharif was chairing a meeting regarding the sector in Islamabad on Wednesday۔ Highlighting that there are immense resources of gems in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, the Prime Minister directed that steps be taken to give regular industry status to the gemstones sector.

He emphasized international certification of the gemstone products to ensure Pakistan’s representation in international market.

The Prime Minister also called for necessary consultation with the private sector and collaboration with the provinces.

He directed to immediately activate the Gems and Jewellery Development Company to initiate necessary legislative process for development of this industry. He also directed for training programs to be started to ensure value addition in the gemstone industry.

The meeting was given a detailed briefing regarding the sector with emphasis on geo-mapping in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir regarding precious stones.

The meeting was informed that a strategy is being prepared for investment in the field of gems and rare stones.