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Expanding the horizon on business front

Pakistan Business Council has been instrumental in promoting trade, commerce and investment between the UAE and Pakistan

Pakistan Business Council (PBC) is a non-profit voluntary association of Pakistani individuals and companies that promotes the development of commerce and investment between the UAE and Pakistan.
Led by Tanvir Khawaja, the Council acts as a liaison between the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry and various Pakistan's Chambers of Commerce and Industries to express the views of the local Pakistan business community to public and private interests.
"At PBC, we provide a forum in which Pakistani businesses in Dubai may identify, discuss and pursue commercial common interests regarding their activities. Our main objective is to facilitate the Pakistani business community in the UAE. We also try to be the bridge between the UAE and Pakistan to increase the trade and economic links between the two countries. The scope of PBC's activities is diverse," Tanvir Khwaja, President, Pakistan Business Council Dubai, told Khaleej Times.
The Council works closely with individuals and organisations in Dubai and other emirates on commercial matters of mutual interest. PBC plays a supportive role to heighten awareness of Dubai's commercial position in the Middle East and among the Pakistan business community. Serving as a bridge between the UAE and Pakistan, it provides key inputs to Pakistani authorities.
"Ours is a platform for Pakistani businessmen who want to invest in Dubai and various other free zones in the UAE. We are constantly finding ways to introduce Pakistani products to business houses in the UAE, especially in Dubai. Our pitch is for investment and joint venture in Pakistan. Moreover, we have been actively involved in organising exhibitions in Dubai to promote Pakistani products," Khawaja added.
Managed by an executive committee consisting of seven directors elected by its regular members, PBC committee meets regularly to review various aspects of its ongoing initiatives. Since its inception in April 2004, the Council has facilitated several direct interactions with top dignitaries in the public and private sectors of the UAE, Pakistan and other countries through its guest speaker programmes, seminars and events, all of which are aimed at sustaining an ongoing dialogue.
"With more than 394 registered members, who meet at least once a month, and living here for more than three decades, Dubai is a home away from home for many of us. We are proud to be part of Dubai's development and highly appreciate the leadership of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai," said Khawaja.
Pertinently, the Council has played a commendable role in raising awareness of the Pakistani community in the UAE and increasing the engagement level with the society at large.
PBC recently participated in the KPK Investment Road Show. As one of the local supporting partners in this event, the programme included comprehensive presentations highlighting the policy parameter, incentives and opportunities for investment in the region.
Pakistan enjoys a great bond with the UAE that has gone from strength to strength over the years. "Despite the difficulties the country has faced, it is poised to grow. In the last few years, things have improved dramatically in Pakistan under the leadership of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. We have a very business-friendly government with the GDP expected to be between 4.5 per cent and 5 per cent this year. Last year, Pakistan's export stood at around $25 billion; it is expected to touch the $50 billion target in the next three to four years," Khawaja noted.
PBC works closely with the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, the Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and other government authorities including the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP).
With the country en route to economic stability, it holds strong potential to become among the top economies in South Asia.
Marking the Independence Day, Khawaja concluded: "It is a joyous occasion. We (Pakistan) have passed by a number of hardships in the past due to different situations. But in the last few years, we have seen stability in the nation. Looking at the latest GDP statistics, economic growth is taking place. We are on the right track to success and development."
PBC wishes all Pakistanis a happy Independence Day.
sadiq@khaleejtimes.com