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Business Recorder
08-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
CFO Conference 2025: Muhammad Ishaq Dar Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan
TEXT: It is a matter of great pleasure for me to extend my warmest greetings to all participants of the CFO Conference 2025, themed 'Quantum Leap: Agility & Competitive Edge.' This timely and pertinent theme resonates strongly with the current economic realities of Pakistan, highlighting the critical imperative for financial leadership to respond with agility, think with foresight, and embrace innovation. In an era defined by volatility and rapid technological advancement, adaptability is not merely a strategic advantage—it is an indispensable necessity. Since its inception in 2010, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan's (ICAP)'s CFO Conference has been a cornerstone event, providing a platform for industry leaders and experts to converge, discuss, and strategize on critical issues shaping the field of finance. Through the commendable efforts of the ICAP Professional Accountants in Business (PAIB) Committee, the conference has evolved into a sought-after yearly gathering of local and global thought leaders. This year's theme underscores the imperative for businesses to pursue innovation-driven growth, foster organizational agility, and sharpen their competitive edge amidst an increasingly complex and fast-paced economic landscape. With thought-provoking sessions on Leadership Metamorphosis, Exploring the Investment Horizon, and Riding the Economic Wave, along with deep dives into Empowered Growth through the integration of Shariah-compliant offerings and digital banking, and Beyond Compliance focusing on ESG adoption — the conference is designed to equip CFOs with the tools, strategies, and foresight needed to lead with confidence and resilience in the face of constant change. The theme 'Quantum Leap: Agility & Competitive Edge' holds immense significance for the Government of Pakistan as it directly impacts the country's economic prosperity. By fostering a business environment that encourages innovation, embraces technological advancement, and prioritizes agility, we empower our institutions and enterprises to respond more effectively to global economic shifts. This theme aligns with the government's vision of creating a resilient and future-ready economy — one that not only adapts to change but leads it. Through strategic reforms, digital transformation, and sustainable practices, we aim to unlock Pakistan's full potential and position the nation as a competitive force in the regional and global landscape. The Professional Excellence Awards (PEA) are a commendable initiative that recognizes the outstanding contributions of ICAP members, inspiring excellence and setting a high standard for the profession. In conclusion, I extend my sincere appreciation to Mr. Saif Ullah, President of ICAP, Mr. Samiullah Siddiqui, Chairman PAIB Committee & Vice President of ICAP, and all those who have contributed to the successful organization of this esteemed conference. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
08-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
CFO Conference 2025: Muhammad Aurangzaib Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Pakistan
TEXT: I extend my congratulations to the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP), for hosting the ICAP-CFO Conference. This conference stands as one of Pakistan's foremost financial industry events, providing a platform for distinguished national and international experts, key opinion leaders, and academia to share their invaluable insights. In today's evolving global economy, resilience and adaptability have become cornerstones of sustainable progress. For Pakistan, navigating fiscal pressures while pursuing long-term economic stability demands forward-looking financial leadership. It is encouraging to see ICAP emphasizing not only technical proficiency but also the strategic agility that is essential to navigate such volatility. I am pleased to note that this year's CFO Conference theme, 'Quantum Leap: Agility & Competitive Edge', powerfully reflects the evolving role of finance leaders in today's fast-paced and dynamic business environment. The theme highlights the need for CFOs to go beyond traditional financial stewardship — to become strategic enablers who drive innovation, foster agility, and build a sustainable competitive edge for their organizations. I am confident that the insights and dialogue emerging from this forum will deepen our collective understanding of the CFO's critical role and contribute meaningfully to the profession's ongoing evolution. I commend ICAP for hosting the third edition of the Professional Excellence Awards, a remarkable initiative celebrating members' outstanding leadership and global impact. My best wishes for its continued success and recognition of excellence. Finally, I express my gratitude to Mr. Saif Ullah, President ICAP, Mr. Samiullah Siddiqui, Chairman PAIB Committee & Vice President of ICAP and all individuals involved in organizing this event. My appreciation extends to all those who have dedicated their time and efforts to ensure the success of this conference and the PEA ceremony. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
08-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
CFO Conference 2025: Samiullah Siddiqui, FCA Chairman, PAIB Committee & Vice-President ICAP
TEXT: It gives me immense pride to present the CFO Conference 2025 and the Professional Excellence Awards (PEA), organized under the auspices of the Professional Accountants in Business (PAIB) Committee of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP). This year's conference is particularly special as we partner with Harvard Business Publishing as our Strategic Knowledge Partner, bringing world-class thought leadership to our platform. This year's theme, " Quantum Leap: Agility & Competitive Edge," emphasizes the importance of the bold shift required in today's finance leaders. With accelerating disruption across markets, the role of the CFO has evolved far beyond financial stewardship. This conference seeks to engage professionals in meaningful dialogue around agility, innovation, and ethical leadership—elements that are critical for sustainable success in the contemporary business environment. As the PAIB Committee, our focus remains on equipping finance professionals with tools that foster adaptability and strategic foresight. Through this year's agenda, we aim to spark critical conversations on digital transformation, future-ready talent, ethical governance, ESG integration, and the expanding role of finance in driving sustainable growth. By creating this platform for collaboration and knowledge exchange, we strive to empower CFOs and business leaders to navigate disruption with confidence, unlock new opportunities, and lead their organizations into the future with resilience and purpose. The ICAP Professional Excellence Awards (PEA) 2023 & 2024 were a tremendous success, and I am thrilled to see this initiative continue for the third consecutive year. This sustained recognition program reflects our firm belief in celebrating the remarkable achievements of ICAP members who have demonstrated visionary leadership, strategic excellence, and a commitment to innovation within their organizations. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Mr. Saif Ullah, President ICAP, for his visionary leadership and unwavering support, and to the entire ICAP team whose dedication has made these initiatives a resounding success. I would also like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to all participants, keynote speakers, panelists, and especially our sponsors for their invaluable contributions and partnership. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Yahoo
27-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Pakistan's ICAP forms ASEB
The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP) has established the Auditing Standards & Ethics Board (ASEB), reported Business Recorder. The board will focus on enhancing audit quality and promoting ethical conduct within the profession in Pakistan. The initiative is in line with global best practices and adheres to the standards set by the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (IAASB) and the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA), stated the institute. The ASEB is composed of representatives from regulatory and financial institutions. These include the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, the State Bank of Pakistan, the Pakistan Stock Exchange, and the Auditor General of Pakistan, as well as practicing members of ICAP and industry professionals. This development follows the recent election of new office bearers for ICAP for the term 2025-2026. In a meeting held in Karachi, Saif Ullah was unanimously elected as president, with Muhammad Awais and Muhammad Samiullah Siddiqui appointed as vice presidents. The institute also plans to host its CFO conference themed 'Quantum Leap: Agility & Competitive Edge,' scheduled for 6 May in Karachi and 8 May in Lahore. Established on 1 July 1961, ICAP's objective is to regulate the accountancy profession in Pakistan. The institute actively collaborates with various policymaking institutions and regulators, including the State Bank of Pakistan, the Federal Board of Revenue, and other ministries, to strengthen the country's regulatory framework. It also holds an international presence having been a member of International Federation of Accountants, South Asian Federation of Accountants, and more. "Pakistan's ICAP forms ASEB " was originally created and published by The Accountant, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.
Khaleej Times
24-03-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Gwadar International Airport: Pioneering a new era of trade and connectivity
The strategic evolution of Gwadar has long been a subject of geopolitical and economic significance. With its deep-sea port positioned at the crossroads of major global trade routes, the city has been steadily transforming into a linchpin of regional commerce. Now, with the operationalisation of the New Gwadar International Airport (NGIAP) on January 20, 2025, this transformation has reached a pivotal moment. A flagship project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), NGIAP is more than an infrastructure milestone - it is a statement of intent. Designed to integrate Gwadar into the global aviation network, the airport's impact is expected to ripple across multiple sectors, from trade and logistics to tourism and investment. According to Saif Ullah, Additional Director of Public Relations at the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), NGIAP is set to redefine regional connectivity. 'This airport is not just about passenger traffic - it is a strategic gateway that will enhance economic mobility, attract investment, and strengthen Pakistan's role in global commerce,' he explains. Infrastructure Built for the Future Spanning 4,300 acres, NGIAP is Pakistan's largest airport by land area and one of the most ambitious aviation projects undertaken in recent years. The terminal building, covering 15,000 square meters, is designed to handle 1.6 million passengers annually, with an initial capacity of 400,000 passengers per year. Since its inauguration, the airport has already accommodated 22 international and 39 domestic flights, signalling a rapid integration into the aviation network. In the past month alone, private media reports indicate that 42 flights were operated, serving over 1,500 passengers - a strong indication of growing demand. But NGIAP's significance extends far beyond commercial aviation. As a logistics and trade hub, its proximity to Gwadar Port, one of the deepest seaports in the world, positions it as a critical enabler of maritime and air trade linkages. 'The synergy between Gwadar Port and NGIAP will make this region a major node in global supply chains,' says Saif Ullah. The airport's economic impact is already evident. Employment opportunities for the local population have surged, with skilled and unskilled laborers finding work across multiple sectors - airport operations, hospitality, and transport. Moreover, with increasing flight operations and a bustling atmosphere of passengers, businesspeople, and traders, NGIAP is fostering a climate of commercial optimism. 'The ripple effect of this airport will be felt in every sector - real estate, tourism, logistics, and retail,' Saif Ullah notes. While NGIAP is already operational, further enhancements are on the horizon. Discussions are underway to expand cargo handling facilities, optimise air traffic operations, and attract international carriers to establish direct routes to key Middle Eastern, Central Asian, and Chinese destinations. At Allama Iqbal International Airport (AIIAP) in Lahore, a transformative expansion is underway. With a completion target of September 2026, the project includes an additional 350,000 square feet of terminal space, an apron expansion with two new bays for large aircraft, upgraded access roads, and a new sewage treatment plant. The expansion is set to increase AIIAP's passenger capacity to 12 million annually, ensuring that Lahore remains a critical gateway for international and domestic travelers. Importantly, flight operations will remain uninterrupted, as the new infrastructure is being constructed alongside the existing terminal before integration. 'This project is designed to accommodate growth for the next 20 years, ensuring Lahore remains a key hub in Pakistan's aviation sector,' explains Saif Ullah. Islamabad International Airport is embracing cutting-edge Electronic Gates (e-Gates) to modernise Automated Border Control systems. This initiative, part of a broader technological overhaul at Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad airports, is expected to be completed by January 2026. 'The introduction of e-Gates will streamline immigration procedures, reducing processing time, enhancing security, and improving the overall passenger experience,' Saif Ullah says. The move aligns Pakistan's aviation sector with global standards, ensuring seamless entry and exit for travelers, while also supporting business and tourism growth. At Jinnah International Airport (JIAP) in Karachi, a Rs8.3 billion runway reconstruction project is in full swing. Launched on July 4, 2024, the project involves the complete reconstruction and extension of Runway 07L/25R, allowing it to accommodate ICAO Category 4F aircraft, including the Airbus A380. The 18-month initiative, slated for completion by January 2026, includes: Reconstruction of Taxiway Golf and construction of Taxiway Quebec Installation of an advanced LED Category-I Airfield Lighting System Integration of a centralised Airfield Lighting Control and Monitoring System (ALCMS) 'These upgrades will ensure safe and efficient flight operations for the next 25–30 years, significantly enhancing runway capacity and operational efficiency,' says Saif Ullah. The improvements will boost tourism, employment, and aviation revenues, reinforcing Karachi's status as Pakistan's most critical aviation hub. The upgradation of Farooq Ahmed Khan Leghari Airport marks a significant milestone in Pakistan's regional aviation infrastructure. By expanding the runway, enhancing night operations, and improving overall airport facilities, this project will unlock new economic and travel opportunities for Dera Ghazi Khan and surrounding regions. The ability to accommodate larger aircraft such as the A320 will attract new airlines, improve connectivity for passengers, and stimulate trade and tourism. This initiative reflects Pakistan's commitment to modernising its aviation sector, ensuring that regional airports play a vital role in national economic growth and development. As Pakistan undertakes an ambitious airport modernisation agenda, the developments at Gwadar, Lahore, Islamabad, and Karachi airports reflect a broader vision - one that prioritises connectivity, economic growth, and technological advancement. With Gwadar International Airport leading this transformation, the country's aviation sector is entering a new era - one defined by strategic infrastructure, enhanced operational efficiency, and an increasingly vital role in global trade and commerce.
