Nepal’s Dhakal assumes charge as SAARC Chamber President

ISLAMABAD: Chandi Raj Dhakal of Nepal on Saturday assumed charge as President of the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) for the 2026–28 term, succeeding Jashim Uddin of Bangladesh. A ceremony in this regard was held here, attended by representatives of the business community from across the country. Dhakal previously served as Vice President of SCCI, which follows a rotational leadership system among its member states. The SCCI presidency is typically decided through this rotational arrangement rather than being tied to a permanent host country. From Pakistan, Atif Ikram Sheikh — currently serving as President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI)—has been selected as Senior Vice President of SCCI for the 2026–28 term. Earlier in the day, a new headquarters building of the SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry was inaugurated by Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhary. The minister said Pakistan is keen to promote regional cooperation among SAARC member states, adding that the business community can play a pivotal role in this regard. Outgoing SCCI President Jashim Uddin, in his message, said that assuming the presidency in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic was particularly challenging, as the South Asian business community was still recovering from regional disruptions. He noted that revitalizing the institution and reconnecting the private sector required collective effort and renewed commitment. He added that one of the key priorities during his tenure was the completion of the SCCI headquarters building to provide a permanent institutional base and strengthen the organization’s future, expressing satisfaction that this vision has now been realized. Speaking on the occasion, Atif Ikram Sheikh paid tribute to the services of the outgoing president and welcomed the new leadership. He said that Jashim Uddin played a critical role in bringing the region’s business community together. On behalf of the Pakistani business community, he expressed appreciation to the leaders of South Asia and the Government of Pakistan for their support in constructing the SCCI headquarters, which will serve as a vital platform for promoting regional cooperation, trade, and investment. The inauguration of the SCCI headquarters building in Islamabad marks a significant milestone for the regional business community, reflecting a collective commitment to strengthening economic integration across South Asia. The new headquarters is expected to serve as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and partnership among private sector stakeholders across the region. It is anticipated that this development will further enhance SCCI’s role in promoting trade, investment, and innovation, contributing to sustainable growth and shared prosperity in South Asia. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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