Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry organized a 2 day All Pakistan Chambers Presidents Conference entitled, ‘Reforming Pakistan’s Economy for Inclusive and sustainable Development, participated by Presidents of Chambers from all across Pakistan, industry, trade leaders, diplomats, educationists, think tanks and media persons in large number. Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry also hosted a networking dinner in honour of the participants at Pir Sohawa, Margallah hills, a spot that offers an extensive and impressive view of the Capital. On the occasion, in his opening speech, Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry greeted all the participants for attending the event and explained in detail the objectives of the Conference. While throwing light on the key issues confronting the business community, he said that ICCI always remained in forefront in highlighting the problems of the community and this paramount initiative is also the part of the same drive. He expressed the hope that the conference will go a long way in addressing the grievances of the community which are badly hurting the economic condition of the country. He also explained that at the end of the conference a joint declaration will be issued and forwarded to all the relevant quarters including the Prime Minister, Finance Minister, Commerce Minister and the Army Chief. In his address, former Provincial Minister Punjab and Patron in Chief United Business Group, S.M.Tanvir described the conference an important milestone for the interaction and networking of the business community. He said that this is the best way to apprise the government of community’s problems and finding viable solutions of the economic problems. He through facts and figures stated that Pakistan enjoys immense investment potential and a number of foreign investors are keen to come and invest and the government is offering all the necessary facilities in this regard.

Member National Assembly and renowned businessman Mirza Ikhtiar Baig termed the ICCI initiative as a credible job which brought together Chambers Presidents from all over Pakistan and enabled the business leaders to unitedly put forward suggestions for the revival of country’s economy. He also extended his congratulations to ICCI President Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari and his team for organizing this significant event. He said that in the result of this important conference, the business community will put forward important message to the government for much needed measures for level playing field. As a PPP MNA from Karachi he assured that budget will be passed without any hurdle and that the IMF package will also have a smooth sail.

Chairman Founder Group ICCI Khalid Iqbal Malik called upon the government to simplify all the procedures pertaining to trade and remove all bureaucratic hurdles for ease of doing business.

Secretary General United Business Group Zafar Bakhtawari underlined the need for reforming country’s foreign policy aligned with friendship with all the countries instead of indulging in enmities for pulling the country from the existing economic turmoil. He said that business community by sharing its vision and thoughts will continue to fulfill its responsibilities for the betterment of the country.

Senior Vice President Faad Waheed Sheikh and Vice President Engr. Azhar ul Islam Zafar also highlighted the importance of the Conference by welcoming the honourable guests.

It is noteworthy that more than thirty Ambassadors attended the dinner and appreciated the ICCI for representing the business community effectively and efficiently.