Birmingham ( ) — Secretary General of the United Business Group (UBG), Zafar Bakhtawari, held an important meeting with Dr. Nasir Awan, President of the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, at his office. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral trade, investment opportunities, potential business collaborations, and strengthening Pakistan-UK economic relations. Zahid Bakhtawari, Abid Bakhtawari, and Hassan Afzal Rana were also present at this significant meeting.
During the discussion, pride was expressed over the historic legacy of the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, the UK’s second-oldest business institution with a 200-year history. Dr. Nasir Awan is only the second person of Pakistani origin to hold the prestigious position of Chamber President, a recognition of his outstanding services to the multicultural business community and broader British society.
Dr. Nasir Awan highlighted that the Pakistani business community plays a vibrant, trustworthy, and positive role in the UK economy. He expressed his desire to see greater promotion of Pakistani products, services, and skills within the UK market and assured that the Greater Birmingham Chamber will provide all possible support in this regard. He emphasized the need to foster direct relations with Pakistan’s Chambers of Commerce, establish joint business platforms, and encourage exchange of trade delegations.
Congratulating Dr. Nasir Awan on assuming the presidency, Zafar Bakhtawari remarked that it is a matter of great pride for all Pakistanis that a hardworking, talented, and visionary Pakistani has been entrusted with leading such a vital British institution. He stressed that fostering ties between the Birmingham Chamber and Pakistani business entities would pave the way for a prosperous trade future for both nations. Introducing Pakistan’s young entrepreneurs and exporters to a stable and opportunity-rich market like the UK is the need of the hour.
Bakhtawari also noted that Birmingham can rightfully be called “Mini Pakistan,” home to over 300,000 Pakistanis. The city not only reflects the Pakistani community’s contribution to Britain’s development but also stands as a strong pillar of Pakistan-UK friendship. Prominent figures of Pakistani origin like Shabana Mahmood, a British Cabinet Minister, and Members of Parliament Saqib Bhatti, Tahir Ali, and Mohammad Ayub Khan, are living proof of the community’s invaluable services to both nations.
Zahid Bakhtawari remarked that the position attained by the Pakistani community in the UK has been achieved solely through hard work and sincerity, reflecting the long-standing relations between the two countries. He stressed the importance of further enhancing cooperation in trade and education sectors.
Abid Bakhtawari highlighted that establishing robust relations with institutions like the Greater Birmingham Chamber could open new markets for Pakistani products. For SMEs, in particular, this presents a revolutionary opportunity.
Hassan Afzal Rana emphasized the need to establish joint business forums to introduce the younger generation to bilateral trade opportunities. He stated that Pakistani youth in the UK possess immense potential, which only requires proper direction and mentorship.
