Karachi: Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), welcomed Dr. Hashim Hussain, Head of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization - Investment and Technology Promotion Office (UNIDO-ITPO) Bahrain, to FPCCI. The visit aims to enhance cooperation between the two organizations to promote small and medium enterprises (SMEs), entrepreneurship, investment, and private sector development in Pakistan.

According to the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Mr. Sheikh emphasized the significance of the partnership with UNIDO-ITPO Bahrain and expressed FPCCI's commitment to collaborating with international organizations. The goal is to create new opportunities for the business community, including women and young entrepreneurs, through capacity building, technology transfer, and sustainable development.

During his three-day stay in Karachi, Dr. Hussain held meetings with Mr. Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, Senior Vice President of FPCCI, to discuss mutual interests related to SMEs, youth entrepreneurship, and investment promotion. Senior officials from the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) also participated, focusing on enhancing cooperation between FPCCI, TDAP, and UNIDO-ITPO Bahrain.

Dr. Hussain engaged with women and young entrepreneurs at FPCCI, addressing the need for international networking, vocational training, and improved access to finance. He affirmed UNIDO-ITPO Bahrain's commitment to supporting entrepreneurship development through knowledge sharing and international collaboration.

In discussions with Balochistan's business community, Dr. Hussain explored measures to promote economic activities in the province, emphasizing vocational training and improved market access. Additionally, he interacted with entrepreneurs from FPCCI's Launchpad Programme, focusing on innovation and startup development.

Dr. Hussain also met with the President and senior management of Meezan Bank to discuss expanding financial support for SMEs and exploring collaborative initiatives to facilitate entrepreneurship and sustainable growth.

Mr. Sheikh expressed confidence that Dr. Hussain's visit would strengthen cooperation between FPCCI and UNIDO-ITPO Bahrain, paving the way for joint initiatives in entrepreneurship development and international business collaboration.