ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and the Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD) discussed ways to expand economic cooperation, promote halal markets and strengthen Islamic finance and private-sector collaboration.
Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, held a meeting with Secretary General, Islamic Chamber of Commerce and Development (ICCD), Shaikh Yousef Hassan Khalawi to discuss the opportunities for cooperation.
The ICCD Secretary General was accompanied by CEO, Al Baraka Bank Pakistan, Muhammad Atif Hanif and Director, International Relations of ICCD, Ms. Aalia Jaffar, according to press release issued by finance ministry.
On the occasion, the finance minister underscored the importance of strengthening linkages between Pakistan’s business community and international business networks. He highlighted the potential for greater engagement and collaboration through the Chamber’s global outreach and platforms.
Khalawi briefed the finance minister on the expanding international outreach of the Islamic Chamber and its engagement with business communities, including those in non-OIC countries.
He highlighted the Chamber’s efforts to connect Muslim business communities globally with private-sector and institutional partners and promote greater halal economic cooperation.
They discussed the growing global halal economy and opportunities for Pakistan to strengthen its presence across sectors including halal food, fashion, halal tourism, services and other consumer markets.
The finance minister emphasized the importance of moving beyond a broad halal concept towards identifying specific products, sectors and markets where Pakistani businesses can expand and capitalize on emerging opportunities.
The participants also discussed opportunities to strengthen Pakistan’s Islamic finance ecosystem and promote greater collaboration with international platforms working in Islamic economics and finance.
The importance of developing commercially viable opportunities and improving market linkages for Pakistani businesses was highlighted.
Khalawi shared international experiences in halal business development, sustainable tourism and Islamic economic cooperation. He emphasized the importance of identifying sector-specific opportunities, understanding international market demand and supporting businesses in developing commercially viable offerings.
The participants also exchanged views on international conferences, business forums and other platforms, with the active role of ICCD, to strengthen connections between Pakistani businesses and global business communities and facilitate greater exchange of ideas and opportunities.
