Farzana Mansoor
DUBAI (UAE): The Pakistan Business Council Dubai (PBCD), a prominent organization established under the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, recently convened its general body meeting to discuss upcoming elections and review the council’s activities.
PBCD’s primary mission is to facilitate Pakistani companies and professionals through business networking, contacts, and information exchange, with a vision to strengthen trade ties between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates, fostering opportunities for growth and prosperity.
The meeting commenced with a recitation of the Holy Quran by Ijaz Ahmed, followed by the national anthems of Pakistan and UAE. New members Mohammad Soheb, Farzana Mansoor, and M. Hameed were warmly welcomed and presented with certificates. Mustafa Sultan provided a comprehensive briefing on the PBC Annual Report, upcoming elections, recent performance, and future plans of the organization.
PBCD has been actively organizing various events to benefit its members and strengthen bilateral relations. These include a Corporate Tax Seminar, SPEED Network, Mango Festival, a farewell ceremony for the Pakistan Ambassador, and Pakistan China Council Liaison. The council is also eagerly preparing to celebrate the United Arab Emirates National Day on a grand scale.
A significant focus of the meeting was the upcoming elections. Iqbal Tabani has been appointed as the Election Commissioner, with the election of seven new directors to be supervised by Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry officials. The elections are tentatively scheduled for December 24, depending on board approval. Only members who have paid their dues and fees by the due date will be eligible to vote, with proxy voting allowed for those unable to attend in person.
Addressing concerns about the election process, Election Commissioner Iqbal Tabani assured members of his commitment to conducting the elections with utmost responsibility and honesty, in accordance with the constitution. Vice Chairman Muhammad Nafees, standing in for Chairman Iqbal Dawood who was absent due to illness, fielded questions from the members, further emphasizing the council’s dedication to transparency.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with Sultan Mehmood extending a warm welcome to new members and encouraging their active participation in the council’s activities. This general body meeting marks an important step in PBCD’s ongoing efforts to enhance Pakistan-UAE business relations and support its members’ growth and success.
