Islamabad: Acting President Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani today inaugurated the Founders’ Wall at the Islamabad Stock Exchange (ISE) Towers Limited, recognizing the pioneers who established the institution. He emphasized the need to expand Pakistan’s capital markets, increase participation, and promote equity financing.
According to Press Information Department, Mr. Gilani, who previously inaugurated the ISE Tower as Prime Minister, recalled the late Ihsan-ul-Haq Piracha’s contributions in establishing the Islamabad Stock Exchange in 1989. He honored the first Board of Directors for their foundational work on the trading and settlement infrastructure, which has served Pakistan for decades.
During his speech, Mr. Gilani highlighted the Founders’ Wall as a tribute to the foresight of those who broadened capital access and integrated northern Pakistan into the financial mainstream. Reflecting on his association with the institution, he reiterated his vision of Islamabad as an economic hub.
Mr. Gilani stressed the importance of stock exchanges as trust vehicles that transform individual savings into national wealth, support business expansion, and create jobs beyond reliance on bank debt. He identified three priorities for capital market strengthening: promoting financial literacy, encouraging listings of family-owned and mid-sized businesses, and ensuring policy stability through sound macroeconomic and structural reforms.
He affirmed Parliament’s role as a committed partner in refining capital market legislation and safeguarding investor interests. Additionally, he underlined the equitable distribution of economic opportunities across all regions.
Mr. Gilani commended the Pakistan Stock Exchange leadership for recognizing the pioneers of the ISE, marking it as an indication of a mature institution. He also extended congratulations on Pakistan Air Force Day and participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony and plaque unveiling for the Founders’ Wall, followed by a briefing with Chairman Haroon Ihsan Piracha and the Board of Directors.