Victory for literature lovers: caretaker PM resolves bookstore issue

ISLAMABAD: Renowned journalist Rauf Klasra took to X, formerly Twitter, to bring to the attention of the caretaker prime minister, the challenges faced by the bookshop Saeed Book Bank in Islamabad.

The bookstore, located in F-7 Jinnah Supermarket, is frequented by international diplomats, tourists, and avid readers. However, the store has run into trouble with regards to importing new books as the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has withheld permission for the import of books.

Klasra, in a direct appeal to the prime minister, urged him to inquire with the SBP and expedite the resolution of the issue. Acknowledging the importance of literature, Klasra emphasised the impact of the delay on the broader society.

He wrote, “Saeed Book Bank is comparable to any major bookstore in the world. But for some time there are no new books on this store. When asked the reason from the owner of the book store, Ahmed Saeed, we found out that an order of forty thousand dollars’ worth of books was made from London, but those books cannot come because the SBP is not giving permission”.

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“Please ask SBP Governor to clear the issue of payment of Saeed Book Bank immediately so that we get new books. We will all be grateful,” he added.

In response, the Caretaker Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Rauf Klasra for bringing the matter to his attention and assured personal involvement in resolving the issue.

Shortly after the Prime Minister’s assurance, Rauf Klasra reported that the SBP officials jumped in to resolve the matter of the delayed import. While the State Bank clarified that it was an individual case involving a specific bank, they extended full assistance to ensure the payment for the books and the smooth import of literature to Pakistan, Klasra wrote.

Ahmed Saeed, the owner of Saeed Books, conveyed his appreciation for the prompt resolution of the issue, noting that the SBP and the Prime Minister’s House maintained active communication throughout the process.

This wholesome incident underscores the significance of fostering a society that encourages reading, writing, and the free flow of literature. Book lovers and enthusiasts on social media also extended their gratitude to the caretaker PM and the SBP for their swift action in ensuring the continued availability of diverse literature at Saeed Book Bank in Islamabad.