SWAT, JUNE 5 (DNA): The President of the Swat Chamber of Commerce, Noor Muhammad Khan, hosted a grand dinner in honor of the central leadership of the United Business Group (UBG). The event was attended by UBG Patron-in-Chief S.M. Tanveer, UBG Secretary General Zafar Bakhtawari, former President of the Sarhad Chamber Haji Muhammad Afzal, President of the Bajaur Chamber Haji Lali Shah, Khyber Chamber Leader Syed Jawad Kazmi, senior leader of Abbottabad Chamber Haji Iftikhar, former President of Lower Dir Chamber Jan Alam, former presidents and executive members of the Swat Chamber, as well as a large number of businesspersons, industrialists, and other distinguished guests.
In his address, S.M. Tanveer stated that United Business Group is not just a group but a mission and a vision – one that aims to empower the Pakistani business community not only as an economic pillar but also as a respected and active participant in policymaking. He emphasized that UBG is committed to resolving the issues of the business community, expanding trade, promoting exports, and creating employment opportunities for the youth.
He added, “Pakistan is a nuclear power and self-reliant in missile technology. It is now time for us to compete with developed nations in the economic arena. To foster business growth in Pakistan, we must implement modern laws, stable policies, and make decisions through consultation with the business community.”
Tanveer reiterated that UBG is not a group that vanishes after elections, but a consultative movement that reaches wherever it’s needed and advances in partnership with traders. “Our vision is not limited to chambers, but extends to improving the national economy, enhancing the business environment, and restoring the dignity of the trader. We are a strong voice for the business community even at the federal level, and that is our pride,” he added.
Zafar Bakhtawari, UBG Secretary General, in his remarks said that the late S.M. Muneer founded UBG as a united family, and now S.M. Tanveer is carrying it forward with dignity, vision, and dedication. “Our mission is to ensure that traders receive the rightful position they deserve in Pakistan’s policymaking.”
He praised the traders of Swat for their hospitality, honesty, and sincerity. “If Pakistani traders integrate honesty, transparency, and modernization into their businesses, they can become not only the backbone of the economy but also the driving force of national development. We must become role model entrepreneurs so that the world respects Pakistan’s business community and we emerge as an economic power globally,” he said.
Bakhtawari further stated that UBG is determined to unite the business community across Pakistan on one platform, provide guidance, voice their issues, and demand sustainable facilities and incentives from the government. “We are not just about slogans; we are actively working in the field,” he emphasized.
President of the Swat Chamber, Noor Muhammad Khan, in his speech, said that the visit of the UBG leadership to Swat is an honor. “We wish that such delegations continue engaging in consultations with traders so that the issues of our region are highlighted at the federal level. The business community of Swat is eager and committed to playing its role in the recovery of the national economy,” he added.
Former President Haji Muhammad Afzal remarked that the traders of Swat are deeply connected with markets across the country, and their economic contributions are significant. “Together with UBG, we are committed to improving the commercial future of Pakistan,” he concluded.