Sustainable Tourism Forum FPCCI & ICCD Jointly Hold Dialogue with Diplomats

Karachi: Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President FPCCI, has apprised that the Federation of Pakistan
Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), in collaboration with the Islamic Chamber of
Commerce and Development (ICCD) and strategic partner Al Baraka Bank Pakistan have
successfully hosted the high-profile Dialogue with Diplomats Dialogue with Diplomats under the
landmark initiative of Sustainable Tourism Promoting (STF): Sustainable Tourism through
Bilateral and Multilateral Partnership – which was graced by ambassador, consul generals, high
commissioner and other top diplomats of various countries.

The event held at the FPCCI Head Office in Federation House, Karachi and focused on the
theme "Transforming Tourism for Community Development." The forum brought together
diplomats, industry leaders, policymakers and stakeholders from across Pakistan and
international partners to discuss innovative strategies for sustainable tourism.

Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh informed that the speakers explored how bilateral and multilateral
partnerships can drive community empowerment, environmental conservation, and economic
growth through responsible tourism practices. Attendees engaged in insightful dialogues on
leveraging Pakistan's rich cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and emerging eco-tourism
opportunities to foster inclusive development.

As highlight of the session, Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh stated that the resolution was adopted for the
initiation of a Tourism Exchange Program among all the Islamic Countries aimed at promoting
business-to-business and people-to-people linkages for the promotion of business, trade,
investment, economic and cultural ties.

Mr. Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, SVP FPCCI, emphasized the forum's role in advancing Pakistan's
tourism sector: "This dialogue marks a pivotal step in transforming tourism into a catalyst for
community development. By fostering international partnerships, we can unlock sustainable
opportunities that benefit local economies while preserving our natural and cultural assets for
future generations.

Mr. Atif Hanif, President & CEO of Al Baraka Bank Pakistan, highlighted the importance of
collaborative efforts: "Sustainable tourism is not just about attractions; it's about building
resilient communities. Through events like this, we're bridging gaps between diplomats and
businesses to create actionable strategies that promote ethical and inclusive growth in Pakistan's
tourism industry.

Khawaja Ashraf Hussain, Director of Events at ICCD Pakistan, gave a detailed presentation on
the objectives, scope, and high-profile activities of the upcoming 2
nd Edition of the Sustainable
Tourism Forum (STF): Transforming Tourism for Community Development to be held in
Karachi on January 21 – 22, 2026.

The ambassador, consul generals, high commissioner and diplomats from Japan, Malaysia,
Indonesia, Algeria, Vietnam, Thailand, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan and
various other important countries underscored how multilateral partnerships can drive
sustainable tourism, creating long-term value for communities and contributing to Pakistan's
economic vision. The event featured discussions, networking and presentations on best practices
from global tourism models adapted to Pakistan's context. Participants expressed optimism about
future collaborations, with calls for policy reforms to enhance sustainable tourism infrastructure.

Brig Iftikhar Opel, SI (M), Retd.

Secretary General