Pakistan: Building bridges for commercial success

Pakistan Business Professional Council in Abu Dhabi plays an eminent role in channelising the success of Pakistani businesses and professionals in the UAE

The Pakistan Business Professional Council (PBPC) is a non-profit organisation helping Pakistanis connect with the local community and find a firm footing in various businesses. In an interview with Khaleej Times, Dr Syed Qaiser Anis, President, PBPC, shares his vision, discusses ways of growth and the importance of a supportive business environment in the UAE. Excerpts:



What is the mandate of PBPC and how is it any different from other councils supporting Pakistani expatriates in the UAE?

PBPC's mandate is to provide a forum for its members to build business relations, benefit from the development in the region, and foster business ties with other councils in the region. Its objective is to promote development of commerce, investment and goodwill between Pakistan and the UAE through member participation.
It is distinct from the other 32 business councils in Abu Dhabi because it constitutes various committees and chapters representing distinct sectors. The Council also supports the UAE nationals and businesses, who are interested in Pakistan's potential opportunities.

Tell us your mission and vision.

We are a non-profit voluntary organisation comprising of individuals and companies whose objectives are to:

- Promote commerce and investment between Pakistan and UAE.
- Provide links with Government Departments, Tourism Offices, Educational Institutions, Chambers of Commerce, businesses as well as other entities in Pakistan and the UAE.
- Be a forum for Pakistani business executives and organisations in the UAE in order to identify, discuss and collaborate in areas of interests.
- Bring awareness to the UAE's commercial significance and potential, among the Pakistani business community.
- The Council may do all things that may be incidental or conducive to the attainment of the foregoing objectives. The Council does not engage in any political activity in the UAE or elsewhere. In addition, it does not provide funds or facilities for political purposes in the UAE or contravene the laws.

The PBPC has been in place for more than a decade. Walk us through the major milestones.

Since the Council was established in 2004, we have arranged numerous signings of Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) between the UAE and Pakistani entities. We have facilitated signing of agreements between the Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) and Abu Dhabi Securities Market (ADSM), between Lahore Stock Exchange and Dubai Financial Market, and between Abu Dhabi Securities Market and Central Depository Company of Pakistan.
In 2014, AmCham Abu Dhabi (American Business Group of Abu Dhabi) and PBPC jointly hosted the 14th Annual Business Group Forum in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry. This major international business event brought together 32 business groups in Abu Dhabi.
Last year the Council organised a gala dinner in celebration of the UAE National Day with the gracious presence of Shaikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development, and Council's Patron-in-Chief. On this occasion, the Council gave recognition to Arif Naqvi, CEO of Abraaj Group, for his services to the business community.  
PBPC in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Ports, Khalifa Industrial Zone, Abu Dhabi Terminals and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan Embassy to the UAE, organised a seminar with the aim of introducing their capabilities and opportunities to Pakistani investors and businessmen.
In 2015, the Council established chapters as a platform to bring together professionals within similar industry. Engineers, doctors, and chartered accountants, as well as an exclusive ladies chapter are doing commendable work in galvanising the community and fulfilling the council's mandate.
PBPC has participated in a number of conferences and exhibitions over the past few months. Furthermore, we have organised cricket tournaments, bowling tournament, musical and mushaira cultural events, in order to engage the Pakistani community together.
We have also established a committee to cater to the needs of the community schools in Abu Dhabi.

How many members do you have and how have they benefitted through this association?

Since inception, the council has grown to 150 members, both corporate and individual and this continues to grow. These members get the opportunity to meet and gain exposure with 32 diverse business councils in Abu Dhabi. Through our various events and initiatives our members are able to grow professionally and personally.

What are the main areas of interest for the Council?

PBPC's core areas of interests include developing an understanding between its members, and creating business opportunities within the UAE. Members can tap into our network and connections in the economic department, health, education and technology sectors in order to work towards a common goal of developing a thriving business community.

Give us an insight into the calendar of events of PBPC for this year.

Pakistan culturally, geographically and strategically enjoys very special ties with the UAE. Accordingly, the PBPC's objective is to further strengthen these ties through its membership and organised events. This year we have a series of programs lined-up, such as:

- A Live Show of Khabardar Team in Abu Dhabi, a joint coordination with Vision Next Media Advertising LLC, Stars Globe Management and My Channel 66
- Seminar on Opportunity in Business and Trade
- Eid Ul Adha gala dinner in honour of the Pakistan Ambassador
- Joint Business Councils Networking Events
- Fashion show, food festival and cultural event
- Cruise dinner
- Annual Business Group forum

What support does PBPC get from the governments in the UAE and Pakistan?

The Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry has been very supportive in most of our events and keeps us abreast of the changes in Abu Dhabi's commercial sector. The Council works under the leadership of the Ambassador of Pakistan. Furthermore, the Embassy of Pakistan plays a vital role in taking care of the community in the UAE and has always been supportive to the council's activities.
To raise awareness among the local community about Pakistan's capabilities and investment potential, PBPC has arranged meetings between the Ministry of Economy, Department of Economic Development and Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq).

What are your targets or plan of action for this year?

The Council's target is to continue to grow its membership. It is also planning on continuing its practice of promoting commerce and investment between Pakistan and the UAE. In addition, the PBPC is working to achieve a common goal in strengthening the relationship between the two nations.  

Last word

We are working hand in hand with Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Khalifa Port, and Masdar City, to boost the trade between the two countries.
PBPC provides consultancy to Pakistani companies who are interested in establishing its presence in the UAE, particularly Abu Dhabi.  
PBPC is also supporting an event of Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP). They are hosting a joint event with International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) on September 28 in Dubai, UAE.
Pakistan is a proud nation of 200 million enterprising people. The country is rich in resources and opportunity.  
The UAE and Pakistan are brotherly nations supporting each other closely and enjoy strong economic and commercial ties. Pakistan played a vital role in the development of the UAE and is extremely proud of the deep friendship between the two nations. The UAE has contributed immensely in establishing successful welfare initiatives and business ventures in Pakistan.
The Pakistan business community looks towards continuing to contribute to the unparalleled progress made by the UAE and it strives to fulfil Abu Dhabi Vision 2030, Dubai Vision 2021 and Expo 2020.
On our 70th Independence Day, the PBPC congratulates all Pakistanis in the UAE and abroad.

- suneeti@khaleejtimes.com

• Pakistan