Diwan Fakhruddin, the CEO of Fakhri Group and Chairman of the FPCCI’s Pakistan-UAE Business Council, has emerged as a pivotal figure in fostering economic ties between Pakistan and the United Arab Emirates. His leadership and vision have significantly contributed to strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in the industrial and trade sectors, which are vital for the economic growth of both nations. In an exclusive conversation with Engineering Post following the 12th session of the Pakistan-UAE Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC), Diwan Fakhruddin shared his insights on the outcomes of the meeting and the future of Pakistan-UAE relations, emphasizing the transformative potential of enhanced cooperation.
The JMC, convened after a 12-year hiatus, marked a significant milestone in revitalizing the partnership between Pakistan and the UAE. The session provided a platform for both countries to comprehensively review their bilateral relations and chart a path forward. Discussions encompassed a wide range of sectors, including trade, banking, culture, investment, aviation, railways, energy, food security, climate change, defense, healthcare, manpower, higher education, and information technology. The breadth of these talks underscores the multifaceted nature of the relationship and the shared commitment to deepening collaboration. Diwan Fakhruddin lauded the outcomes of the meeting, particularly the visa exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic and government passports. “This is a commendable step toward facilitating smoother interactions between our nations,” he stated, highlighting the importance of such measures in fostering closer ties.
However, Diwan Fakhruddin was quick to point out that the benefits of the visa exemption should not be limited to diplomats and government officials. He urged the governments of both countries to extend similar privileges to business owners, arguing that such a move would significantly boost trade and investment. “Business owners are the backbone of economic growth. By easing their travel, we can unlock new opportunities for collaboration and exponentially increase trade,” he emphasized. His call for broader visa facilitation reflects his deep understanding of the practical barriers that hinder business interactions.
Diwan Fakhruddin’s optimism about the future of Pakistan-UAE economic relations is grounded in the remarkable progress already achieved. He noted that bilateral trade between the two countries has reached an impressive $10.9 billion. This figure, while substantial, represents only a fraction of the potential that could be realized with the right policies and initiatives. “With more business opportunities provided to businessmen, this trade can be increased exponentially,” he asserted, pointing to the untapped possibilities in sectors such as energy, technology, and healthcare.
The JMC’s discussions on diverse sectors like food security and climate change also resonated with Diwan Fakhruddin, who sees these areas as critical for sustainable development. The UAE’s expertise in renewable energy and Pakistan’s growing focus on addressing climate challenges present opportunities for collaboration that could benefit both nations. Similarly, the emphasis on manpower and higher education highlights the potential for human capital development, which he believes is essential for long-term economic progress. “By investing in education and skilled manpower, we can create a workforce that drives innovation and growth,” he remarked
Diwan Fakhruddin’s leadership within the FPCCI’s Pakistan-UAE Business Council has been instrumental in advocating for policies that facilitate trade and investment. His role as a bridge between the business communities of both countries has helped foster trust and collaboration. The outcomes of the JMC, combined with Diwan Fakhruddin’s proactive approach, signal a new chapter in Pakistan-UAE relations. As both nations work to implement the agreements reached during the session, Fakhruddin’s call for inclusive policies, particularly for business owners, could pave the way for a more dynamic and prosperous partnership.
