Karachi: Governor State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Ashraf Mehmood Wathra has directed all banks to increase their presence in remote and underserved areas of the country, especially in Baluchistan, KP, to provide banking services as part of a financial inclusion strategy. Addressing at the launching ceremony of the 2nd Pakistan Banking Awards 2017 governor SBP said that banking sector of Pakistan has been very fundamental for the development of the economy. “The financial sector plays a pivotal role in determining the overall economic growth and development of a country. The contribution and achievements of the institutions contributing to this sector should be recognized and acknowledged. After the tremendous success of the 1st Banking Awards in 2016, I am delighted to address this distinguished gathering of executives and academicians from the banking and finance sector, SBP governor added. These awards are now an annual event, to encourage new entrants to make their mark while motivating the established institutions to strive for excellence. Awards are given to individual banks based on their performance, broadly in the developmental, financial, and customer service related spheres, he stated appreciating the role of Institute of Bankers Pakistan (IBP), A.F. Ferguson & Co (AFF) for organizing “Pakistan Banking Awards 2017” on a continuous basis. The CEO IBP Hussain Lawai said, “The Pakistan Banking Awards 2017 would serve as a platform to promote, recognize and acknowledge the contribution of the banking industry towards enhancing Pakistan’s economy. Our jury comprises of people who possess relevant expertise and are undoubtedly institutions in themselves. Like before they would adopt transparent and impartial evaluation process to select the best performers for this year’s Awards”.