LAHORE: Ms Yasmeen Kuraishi, Director, Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, (TDAP) has said that to bring the gems and jewellery sector at par with the international standards, a comprehensive policy is needed. For the achievement of this objective, TDAP has been working on various projects in collaboration with the people attached with this sector. Ms Yasmeen Kuraishi was speaking at the inaugural session of a five-day Export Orientation workshop organized by TDAP in collaboration with Gold Art Promotion Council-Pakistan and the Regional Standing Committee on Gems and Jewellery of Pakistan Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry. The workshop was organized on the request of the stakeholders. Initially 25 jewellers were to attend the workshop but the total turn out was around 50 due to the interest of the stakeholders. The workshop is being conducted by Mr Asad Zahoor, a consultant of international repute. Mrs. Yasmeen Kuraishi stated that, trainings in the basics of export is an absolute necessity as exports are no longer an option, but have become imperative for the industry. She stressed upon the participants to play their due role in improving the economy of the country. All sectors should share their responsibility in this regard. Mr.s Yasmeen disclosed that on strong and repeated requests from stakeholders in this sector she will take up the matter of the establishment of a Gems and Jewellery Institute in Lahore with the concerned quarters as it was the need of the hour. Speaking on the occasion, the President of Gold Art Promotion Council-Pakistan and Chairman of the Regional Standing Committee on Gems and Jewellery of Pakistan Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Muhammad Ahmad said that the rising prices of gold had created a crisis-like situation in the gems and jewellery sector. This situation has compelled our trained artisans to face starvation. Increasing exports of gems and jewellery is the only solution to this problem. He also said that this workshop will help a lot in dispelling the fear relating to the gems and jewellery export. Mr Ahmad also assured full cooperation to TDAP from GAPC-Pakistan platform for achieving maximum results.