Mr. Basel Anbari, Director and Regional Chair (DRC), ASHRAE Region-at-Large

As we stand on the brink of a pivotal moment in our region’s history, I am filled with immense pride to welcome you all to the ASHRAE Region-at-Large (RAL) Chapters Regional Conference (CRC) 2024, hosted in the dynamic city of Karachi, Pakistan. This event is truly monumental, as it marks the first time a CRC is being held in Pakistan—an achievement that underscores the tremendous growth and commitment of the ASHRAE Pakistan Chapter.

For over a century, ASHRAE has been at the forefront of shaping the future of the built environment, driven by our dedication to technological innovation, environmental sustainability, and the advancement of HVAC&R sciences. The CRC is a vital part of our journey, where members from across our region come together not just to celebrate our achievements but to chart the course for our future. We gather to enhance our skills, collaborate on the most pressing challenges of our time, and reaffirm our collective commitment to excellence.

The ASHRAE Region-at-Large is a diverse and expansive network, encompassing 21 chapters spread across three continents. This diversity is our strength, as each chapter brings unique experiences, challenges, and solutions to the table. At this year’s CRC, we will harness that diversity to fuel new ideas and strategies that push the boundaries of what’s possible in the HVAC&R industry. Whether it’s energy efficiency, indoor air quality, or sustainable design, the insights shared here will ripple through our region and beyond, contributing to a more resilient and sustainable world.

I must commend the ASHRAE Pakistan Chapter for their remarkable efforts in organizing this event. Hosting the CRC for the first time is no small feat, and they have done so with unwavering dedication and vision. The blend of professional development opportunities with cultural showcases is a testament to the richness of this experience. From the Welcome Beach Dinner that captures the spirit of Karachi’s vibrant coastline to the Cultural Dinner at the Governor’s House, and the Sports Night at Legends Arena, these events will foster relationships that extend beyond professional ties, strengthening the very fabric of our ASHRAE community.

While we celebrate the historic nature of this event, we must also keep our eyes fixed on the future. The CRC provides a platform to shape the strategic direction of our chapters and ensure that we remain aligned with ASHRAE’s global mission. Each session, each conversation, and each connection made here brings us closer to that shared vision—a vision where sustainability, innovation, and excellence are not just aspirations but realities embedded in every facet of the built environment.

In closing, I encourage you to fully immerse yourselves in the opportunities this CRC presents. Engage with your fellow members, share your knowledge, and most importantly, challenge yourself to think beyond the conventional. Together, we have the power to redefine the future of our industry and contribute meaningfully to the world around us.

Thank you for being part of this historic CRC. I look forward to the discussions, collaborations, and solutions that will emerge from our time here.