Shabbir Merchant takes charge as new chairman of Pakistan Business Council Dubai (VIDEO)
Consul General highlights PBC’s pivotal role in strengthening bilateral ties
DUBAI: Prominent businessman Shabbir Merchant has been elected as the new Chairman of the Pakistan Business Council (PBC) Dubai.
His election marks a significant leadership shift aimed at bolstering trade and cultural ties between Pakistan and the UAE.
The announcement was made during a grand ceremony at the Pakistan Association Dubai, attended by Consul General Hussain Muhammad, who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Key business leaders, community members, and media representatives from the Pakistani diaspora in the UAE gathered for the event, which also introduced the newly elected Board of Directors.
Consul General lauds PBC’s role
In his keynote address, Consul General Hussain Muhammad applauded the outgoing Board of Directors for their dedicated service and extended his congratulations to the new leadership. “The Pakistan Business Council serves as an essential platform for enhancing trade, investment, and collaboration between Pakistan and the UAE,” he said.
He emphasised the Council’s vital role in fostering economic cooperation and urged the new Board to explore innovative strategies to strengthen bilateral ties. “The Pakistani community in the UAE has made remarkable contributions to the region’s development and prosperity. I am confident the PBC will continue to play a pivotal role in fortifying our economic and diplomatic relationship,” he added.
Shabbir Merchant’s vision
In his inaugural speech, Shabbir Merchant outlined a bold vision for modernising the Council’s approach to trade, fostering innovation, and empowering start-ups. He stressed the importance of aligning PBC initiatives with contemporary economic trends to ensure sustained growth and competitiveness.
Merchant announced a membership expansion campaign as his first major initiative, inviting more members of the Pakistani community to join the Council. This move aims to diversify PBC’s membership base, which already encompasses industries ranging from trade and manufacturing to technology and services.
“The Pakistan Business Council has the unique potential to act as a bridge between Pakistan’s business community and global markets, particularly the UAE. Together, we can create new opportunities that benefit both nations,” said Merchant.
Strengthening UAE-Pakistan trade
Bilateral trade between Pakistan and the UAE has witnessed robust growth, reaching over $10 billion in 2023, a testament to the deepening economic partnership. The UAE remains one of Pakistan’s most critical trade partners, with opportunities for collaboration expanding across sectors such as technology, real estate, and agriculture.
Merchant affirmed his commitment to initiatives that not only drive private sector growth but also contribute to Pakistan’s broader economic development. His leadership is expected to advance PBC’s goals of facilitating trade, fostering innovation, and nurturing entrepreneurship.
Under Merchant’s leadership, the PBC aims to strengthen cultural and social ties alongside economic cooperation. The Council plans to host events and initiatives that celebrate shared heritage while promoting mutual understanding between the two nations.
New Board members
The newly elected Board of Directors, introduced at the ceremony, are Shabbir Merchant (Chairman), Noor Karim Afridi, Iftikhar Ali Tatlah, Muhammed Saleem Zakria, and Kamran Ahmed Riaz.