- G2G contacting play a crucial role in building and making Pakistan and the UAE ties stronger
- Pakistan must increase export volumes into the oil-rich UAE
Interview with Mr. Khalid Tawab — Chairman, Tawab Group of Companies
Profile:
Khalid Tawab, Sitara-e-Imtiaz, is a well-known leader of the business community. Born and raised in Karachi, Khalid Tawab has served in various prestigious positions. He is a proven hard worker. From his humble beginning in steel and iron trade, today Khalid Tawab is the Chairman of Tawab Group of Companies. Tawab Group has a large portfolio, which includes steel, paper, board paper, construction and equities.
In recognition of his remarkable success, Mr. Khalid Tawab was honoured to receive Sitara-e-Imtiaz from the President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. He has served in various key positions in several companies. Over his 30 years of professional career, S. Khalid Tawab has served as Minister for Industry & Commerce, Government of Sindh, Senior Vice President FPCCI, Vice President FPCCI. Senior Vice President Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Acting President Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry and various other key positions, such as Chairman Ports and Shipping, in the Federation of Chamber of Commerce and Industries and several other associations.
He has also served in various advisory committees formed to aid and advice the government. He has served in key positions in Academic Committee of Technical Education (Sindh), Citizens Police Liaison Committee (CPLC, Sindh), and Employers Federation of Pakistan. Railway Advisory Committee, Power Rate Advisory Committee, Sindh Industries and Mineral Development Advisory Council, Provincial Industrial Facilities Board (Sindh), Pakistan Shippers Council among others,
Khalid Tawab also contributes to social work and is a member of the Board of Kidney Centre Patient Welfare Association and also served on Boards of prestigious educational institutions such as Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) and Institute of Business Administration (IBA. Karachi).
In the contribution of his services to Pakistan, he was also honoured to receive Honorary Doctorate from the University of Karachi. He is also the Honorary Consul General of the Republic of Mozambique. A Pakistani by heart and soul, S. Khalid Tawab is a compassionate person always ready to serve. He aspires to see a developed and prosperous Pakistan.
PAGE: How would you comment on bilateral trade between Pakistan and the UAE?
Khalid Tawab: The proximity and cultural ties between Pakistan and the UAE foster a strong relationship, with many Pakistanis considering the UAE a second home. While the current bilateral trade balance leans in favour of the UAE, there’s a notable upward trajectory in trade volume over time. Pakistan primarily exports a diverse range of products, including organic agricultural goods which will further enhance in the times to come.
PAGE: What is your perspective on the UAE investment in Pakistan?
Khalid Tawab: The increasing trend of UAE investment in Pakistan is a positive development that underscores the strengthening economic ties between the two nations. This influx of Emirati investment contributes not only to Pakistan’s economic growth but also facilitates the transfer of technology and expertise. It fosters job creation, infrastructure development, and enhances the overall business environment. As both countries continue to explore avenues for collaboration, the UAE’s investment in Pakistan emerges as a mutually beneficial partnership, leveraging the strengths and opportunities each nation offers.
PAGE: What is your take on government-to-government contacts between Pakistan and the UAE?
Khalid Tawab: The Consul General H.E. Bakheet Al Remeithi has been working in Pakistan for more than 20 years in different capacities and he is the man behind the promotion of investment and enhancing the trade between the two countries. Government-to-government contacts between Pakistan and the UAE are a cornerstone for fostering diplomatic relations and cooperation. Such engagements provide a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of ideas on various fronts, including economic partnerships, security initiatives, and cultural exchanges. These interactions not only strengthen the bilateral ties but also pave the way for joint ventures and mutually beneficial initiatives. Emphasising shared values and common goals, government-to-government contacts play a crucial role in building a positive and enduring relationship between Pakistan and the UAE.