Faisal Siddiqi Named SouthAsia Forum Secretary General
The corporate communications expert will lead efforts to expand the think tank’s outreach and strengthen dialogue on South Asian affairs.
Faisal Siddiqi has been nominated as Secretary General of the SouthAsia Forum.
KARACHI, September 1, 2026: The SouthAsia Forum, a private-sector think tank focused on regional and global affairs, has nominated experienced communications professional Faisal Siddiqi as its new Secretary General.
Established in 1996, the Forum aims to promote informed discussion on the social, cultural, business, economic and political developments shaping South Asia. Siddiqi’s appointment is expected to strengthen its efforts to encourage meaningful dialogue and deepen understanding of the region’s evolving dynamics.
Siddiqi brings extensive experience in corporate communications, public affairs and advocacy, reputation management and strategic communications. His professional background is expected to support the Forum’s efforts to broaden its engagement with stakeholders and strengthen its position as a platform for informed regional debate.
Chairman Welcomes New Secretary General
SouthAsia Forum Chairman Syed Jawaid Iqbal welcomed Siddiqi’s appointment and expressed confidence in his ability to take the organisation forward.
Iqbal said Siddiqi’s communications expertise and understanding of regional and contemporary issues would help strengthen the Forum’s role in promoting informed discussion and constructive engagement.
He said he was confident that the Forum would continue to grow under Siddiqi’s leadership while remaining committed to the purpose for which it was established.
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SouthAsia Forum’s Role in Regional Dialogue
The SouthAsia Forum was established as a private-sector platform in response to South Asia’s growing importance in the global landscape.
The organisation examines developments across the region’s social, cultural, business, economic and political spheres while maintaining a broader international perspective.
Its activities are aimed at bringing together diverse viewpoints and creating opportunities to examine contemporary challenges and opportunities through research, informed discourse and debate.
The Forum also works with leading public-sector organisations, international foundations and endowments to promote discussion on economic and social issues involving politics, business and industry.
Through these engagements, it seeks to encourage constructive debate, facilitate the exchange of ideas and develop a deeper understanding of South Asia’s role in the wider world.
Siddiqi to Expand Forum’s Outreach
As Secretary General, Siddiqi will work closely with the chairman and members of the Forum to expand its outreach and strengthen institutional and stakeholder engagement.
He will also focus on further developing the organisation’s role as a platform for thought leadership and meaningful regional discourse.
The appointment comes as South Asia continues to face complex economic, political and social challenges, increasing the importance of platforms that bring together policymakers, business leaders, academics and other stakeholders for informed discussion.
