Dubai/Abu Dhabi (Special Correspondent) : Faraz-ur-Rehman, Chairman and Founder of the Pakistan Business Group, received a warm welcome from the business community upon his arrival in Dubai. The President of the UAE Chapter, Iqbal Advani, the President of the Women’s Wing, Rizwana Shahid, along with MLF and PBGO Dubai Chapter members and other dignitaries, hosted a grand dinner in his honor.
In his address, Faraz-ur-Rehman highlighted Pakistan’s significant contributions to GCC countries. He stressed the importance of Muslim unity, stating that it is crucial to help Pakistan overcome its economic crisis. “Pakistan is the only country that will stand by you in times of need,”he said.
He expressed concern over the recent visa restrictions imposed on Pakistani citizens, urging the UAE and GCC business communities to find an immediate solution to this issue.”The soil of the UAE is as dear to us as that of Pakistan, but blocking the only pathway for our middle class is unjust,”he remarked.
Faraz-ur-Rehman acknowledged the efforts of HE Bakheet, praising his role as a bridge between Pakistan and the UAE. He requested that the visa process be simplified to enhance commercial activities. “A system’s fault should not be equated with Pakistan’s fault,” he pointed out.
In another significant development, Faraz-ur-Rehman praised the recent amnesty initiative announced by the UAE government during a press conference by the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Port Security (ICP) on August 28 in Abu Dhabi. This initiative allows individuals on any type of visa—residence or visit visa—who have overstayed to either regularize their status or leave the country within 14 days, starting from September 1. The amnesty exempts violators from financial penalties related to visas, residency, identity cards, and establishment cards.
Faraz-ur-Rehman appreciated this humanitarian step, stating,”The UAE’s initiative to regularize the status of violators reflects values of tolerance, compassion, and social cohesion.”
He also urged Sheikh Mohammed to provide unconditional support to Pakistan during this challenging time, emphasizing that this is the moment to help Pakistan maintain regional balance.
Faraz-ur-Rehman further discussed the future roadmap of the Pakistan Business Group, emphasizing that the organization’s goal is to provide a robust platform for small business owners to grow, thereby playing a crucial role in Pakistan’s economic development.
