icci awards istanbul
|

ICCI awards in Istanbul highlight new opportunities for Pakistan-Turkiye economic partnership

ByJustpaste.in

ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) has used a series of high-level engagements in Istanbul to promote Pakistan’s private sector, recognise leading entrepreneurs and strengthen commercial ties between Pakistan and Turkiye.

The ICCI International Excellence Awards 2026 brought together Turkish government representatives, diplomats, business leaders and members of the Pakistani and Turkish business communities, providing a platform to highlight the contribution of Pakistani entrepreneurs while exploring opportunities for greater bilateral trade and investment.

Around 40 Pakistani business leaders representing a range of sectors were honoured at the awards ceremony for their contributions to the country’s economy and private-sector development, according to a press release issued on Saturday.

The event also provided an opportunity for business representatives from both countries to discuss the potential for expanded commercial cooperation, investment partnerships and joint ventures.

Turkish officials stress stronger business links

Addressing the ceremony, Istanbul Deputy Governor Mehmet Sulun said initiatives bringing together business communities from Pakistan and Turkiye could play an important role in expanding people-to-people and business-to-business contacts.

He said stronger interaction between entrepreneurs could create fresh opportunities in trade, investment and joint ventures while contributing to deeper ties between the two countries.

Sulun observed that business leaders played a role beyond commercial activity, describing them as important contributors to friendship and mutual understanding between the two nations.

He expressed confidence that the longstanding relationship between Pakistan and Turkiye would continue to develop and remain strong for future generations.

Pakistan’s Consul General in Istanbul Khawaja Khurram Naeem also emphasised the importance of expanding direct links between the private sectors of the two countries.

He said political and fraternal relations needed to be complemented by stronger commercial engagement if Pakistan and Turkiye were to significantly increase bilateral trade and investment.

Naeem assured Pakistani business representatives that Pakistan’s diplomatic mission would continue supporting initiatives aimed at improving commercial cooperation and facilitating interaction between entrepreneurs from both countries.

ICCI seeks expansion in trade and investment

In his opening remarks, ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood highlighted the longstanding historical, cultural and fraternal relationship between Pakistan and Turkiye.

He said the two countries had strong political and people-to-people relations, but the economic relationship had considerable room for further expansion.

Mehmood reaffirmed the ICCI’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at increasing bilateral trade and investment in line with the ambitions of the leadership of both countries.

He said the chamber was working to establish itself as an international platform connecting Pakistani businesses with global markets and partners.

According to Mehmood, the ICCI is focusing on promoting Pakistani exports, attracting investment and developing international business partnerships while coordinating with government departments and other relevant institutions to improve the business environment.

He stressed that greater ease of doing business and stronger institutional support would help Pakistani companies compete more effectively in international markets.

Turkish chamber backs institutional cooperation

Munir Ustun, a member of the Executive Board of the Istanbul Chamber of Commerce, welcomed efforts to bring the Pakistani and Turkish business communities closer.

He stressed the importance of stronger institutional relationships between chambers and private-sector organisations in both countries.

Ustun said regular business delegations, business-to-business meetings and joint commercial initiatives could help identify areas where cooperation could be expanded.

He noted that significant untapped potential existed in bilateral trade and investment and that closer engagement between businesses could help turn that potential into concrete commercial projects.

Faisal Town Group Director Zohair Majeed said the international recognition given to Pakistani entrepreneurs demonstrated the capability and resilience of the country’s private sector.

He said Pakistani companies had the potential to compete in international markets and argued that stronger partnerships with Turkish businesses could create opportunities in investment, technology transfer and exports.

According to Majeed, greater cooperation between businesses could also contribute to sustainable economic growth and help Pakistani companies gain access to new markets and technologies.

Pakistan-Turkiye economic ties discussed at Independence Day event

The ICCI delegation also participated in a separate event in Istanbul to mark Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day, where Pakistani and Turkish business representatives reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral economic cooperation.

Speaking at the gathering, Mehmood said Pakistan’s independence had been achieved after enormous sacrifices by the country’s founding generation.

He called on citizens and the business community to contribute to national development by promoting economic growth, investment and entrepreneurship.

Mehmood said Pakistan and Turkiye shared decades of historical, cultural and fraternal ties, adding that the longstanding relationship should increasingly be reflected in stronger economic cooperation.

He called for greater participation by the private sectors of both countries in trade, investment and joint ventures.

The ICCI president said the chamber would continue to provide platforms where Pakistani and Turkish entrepreneurs could meet, explore commercial opportunities and develop long-term partnerships.

Turkish business representatives also reiterated their commitment to deepening the relationship with Pakistan, particularly through increased trade, investment and direct business-to-business engagement.

Business conference explores investment opportunities

The economic engagement was further strengthened through a Business Opportunity Conference in Istanbul, which brought together business leaders from both countries to examine potential areas for cooperation.

Participants discussed opportunities for expanding bilateral trade, establishing joint ventures, attracting investment and creating stronger business-to-business connections.

Pakistan’s Consul General in Istanbul Khawaja Khurram Naeem participated actively in the discussions, responding to questions from Turkish business representatives and outlining Pakistan’s trade and investment potential.

He also highlighted developments in the country’s business and investment environment and encouraged Turkish companies to examine opportunities in Pakistan.

A significant number of Turkish companies participated in the conference and expressed interest in exploring commercial and investment prospects in Pakistan.

During an interactive session, ICCI President Sardar Tahir Mehmood, along with former ICCI presidents Aamir Waheed Sheikh and Mohammad Ejaz Abbasi, and Dr Adeel Sami, Founder and President of the Pakistan-Turkiye Investment & Development Council, responded to questions from Turkish entrepreneurs.

The discussion focused on practical mechanisms for strengthening commercial links and identifying sectors where Pakistani and Turkish companies could work together.

Focus shifts from friendship to economic partnership

The events in Istanbul underscored a broader effort to transform Pakistan-Turkiye’s longstanding political and cultural relationship into stronger economic cooperation.

While both countries have traditionally maintained close diplomatic and public-level ties, business representatives from the two sides stressed the need for more frequent commercial exchanges and greater private-sector participation.

The ICCI said continued engagement through business conferences, trade delegations, investment forums and B2B meetings could help businesses identify partners, enter new markets and develop joint ventures.

Similar Posts

  • | |

    Ariana Grande explains decision to step back from …

    ByJustpaste.in

    Ariana Grande has finally addressed her decision to step back from public life, reassuring fans that the move is about finding balance and protecting her well-being rather than reacting to recent criticism. During an emotional speech at her Eternal Sunshine Tour stop in Chicago, the singer explained that her upcoming break had been planned long before recent public discussions about her appearance. Grande said the decision was not a response to online negativity but part of a personal commitment to creating a healthier and more balanced future.  The Grammy-winning artist told fans that the tour has been one of the most healing experiences of her career. Speaking from the stage, she thanked concertgoers for their unwavering support and said their love has carried her through challenging moments. Grande emphasized that stepping away from the spotlight is an empowering choice that allows her to prioritize herself after years of nonstop work.  Grande has spent the past several years balancing multiple high-profile projects, including new music, a worldwide tour and her acting career. Earlier this year, she admitted in an interview with Vogue Japan that taking a break would probably be healthy because she has rarely slowed down since becoming a global star as a teenager. She said her goal for the next chapter of her life is to find more balance than she had during the previous 15 years.  Her representatives recently confirmed that she will step back from public-facing appearances after the Eternal Sunshine Tour concludes in September. They explained that Grande wants to finish the tour on a positive note before taking a well-earned break from constant public visibility. The statement also confirmed that she has withdrawn from the planned West End production of Sunday in the Park with George, with producers expressing their full support for her decision.  Despite the temporary pause, Grande has made it clear that she is not saying goodbye to music or acting. She has previously described music as her “lifeline” and has repeatedly said she hopes to continue exploring both creative passions in the future.  For now, Ariana Grande is choosing rest over relentless schedules. Her latest message highlights the growing importance of setting boundaries, proving that even one of the world’s biggest pop stars recognizes the value of protecting personal well-being while looking ahead to the next chapter of her career.

  • |

    Deepika and Ranveer prepare to welcome second child

    ByJustpaste.in

    Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh are reportedly preparing to welcome their second child, with the couple keeping a relatively low profile as they enter another important chapter of their family life. While both actors have remained focused on their professional commitments, their recent appearance at the airport offered fans a rare glimpse of the family together. Deepika was recently spotted travelling to Bengaluru with her daughter, Dua. According to videos circulating online, Ranveer also accompanied his wife and daughter to the airport. The actor appeared to remain inside the car for most of the time and seemed keen to avoid attention from photographers. However, he was eventually seen in the footage as the family made their way through the airport. Deepika attracted attention with her relaxed travel look. She wore an oversized shirt with baggy denim jeans, keeping her outfit comfortable and casual. Her visible baby bump and pregnancy glow quickly became a talking point among fans, who were excited to catch a glimpse of the actress during her pregnancy. Ranveer, meanwhile, kept his appearance simple in a white T-shirt and glasses. The couple’s growing family is also believed to have influenced Ranveer’s upcoming work schedule. The actor is currently associated with the highly anticipated project Pralay, directed by Jai Mehta. The production was initially expected to include a lengthy shooting schedule in Australia. However, parts of the schedule are now reportedly being shifted to Mumbai. The change is said to be connected to both personal and production-related considerations. With Deepika expecting their second child, Ranveer is reportedly keen to remain close to his family during this significant period. At the same time, the production has reportedly encountered difficulties in obtaining permissions for certain Australian filming locations. Moving portions of the shoot to Mumbai could therefore make the production process more manageable while allowing Ranveer to stay closer to home. Since welcoming their daughter Dua, Deepika and Ranveer have generally kept their family life away from excessive public attention. Their latest airport appearance was therefore welcomed by fans, who were quick to share clips and discuss the couple’s preparations for the arrival of their second baby. On the professional front, Deepika is set to appear in King, while Ranveer continues his work on Pralay. The actor is reportedly trying to maintain a balance between his demanding career and his responsibilities as a husband and father. With the arrival of their second child approaching, family is expected to remain an important priority for both stars in the coming months.

  • | |

    Azma Bukhari: Opposition can’t stop PML-N wi…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari has expressed confidence that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) will emerge victorious in the second phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections. In a statement, Azma Bukhari said political opponents alleging electoral rigging would continue to make such claims, but the people would keep placing their trust in the PML-N through the democratic process. She maintained that the party’s candidates were expected to secure victories with comfortable margins. The minister said polling during the second phase of the AJK elections was conducted in a peaceful atmosphere, with voters actively participating and exercising their democratic right across the constituencies. Azma Bukhari claimed that many voters were supporting the PML-N because they appreciated the performance of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. She said the provincial government’s development initiatives had strengthened public confidence in the party and encouraged voters to support its candidates. Criticising the opposition, she said parties raising allegations about the electoral process had failed to gain significant public support. According to her, such criticism did not reflect the overall mood of the electorate. Highlighting the party’s development agenda, Azma Bukhari said the people of Azad Kashmir also deserved modern infrastructure and public welfare projects. She referred to improved road networks, electric bus services, and the Apni Chhat Apna Ghar housing programme as examples of initiatives that could also benefit the region.

  • |

    ICC member states decide Karim Khan’s future

    ByJustpaste.in

    The International Criminal Court (ICC) member states met on Friday to decide the future of suspended Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan, who is facing allegations of sexual misconduct made by a former staff member. Khan has firmly denied all accusations and insists he has done nothing wrong. Representatives from the court’s 125 member countries gathered at the United Nations headquarters in New York to vote on whether Khan should continue in office or be removed permanently. The decision is being made through a secret ballot, and an absolute majority is required for a final outcome. Karim Khan stepped aside from his duties in May 2025 after the allegations emerged and an internal investigation was launched. Last month, the ICC’s governing bureau suspended him from office, stressing that the suspension was a temporary administrative measure and did not represent a final judgment on the case. During the meeting, Assembly of States Parties President Päivi Kaukoranta described the issue as a complex and sensitive disciplinary matter. She urged member states to conduct the proceedings fairly while respecting the rights, privacy and dignity of everyone involved and protecting the credibility of the court. The allegations gained wider international attention after the complainant, identified only as Sarah, publicly shared her account in a recent media interview. She alleged that repeated inappropriate behaviour by Khan eventually led to physical assault. She also said the significant difference in authority between them meant there could be no genuine consent. Khan has repeatedly denied the allegations. His legal team recently urged ICC member states not to remove him, arguing that he had not been given a fair opportunity to defend himself during the disciplinary process. His lawyers also warned that dismissing the prosecutor without proper legal safeguards could weaken the independence of future ICC prosecutors. Supporters of Khan argue that the investigation did not conclusively establish misconduct and say the case could create a dangerous precedent for future office holders. Others believe the seriousness of the allegations requires decisive action to maintain public trust in the court. Since becoming the ICC’s chief prosecutor in 2021, Khan has overseen several major international investigations. He gained global attention after seeking arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant over the Gaza conflict. The court also issued arrest warrants for several Hamas leaders during his tenure. Those decisions led to strong criticism from Israel and sanctions imposed by the United States on Khan and several ICC judges, increasing political pressure on the court. Legal experts remain divided over the case. Some argue that removing Khan is necessary to protect the ICC’s credibility and public confidence. Others maintain that any decision must be based strictly on due process and the rule of law rather than political considerations.

  • |

    Sonu Nigam explains why he will not discuss NEET protests publicly

    ByJustpaste.in

    Sonu Nigam has addressed his decision to stay silent on the NEET protests, after a video of his reaction went viral online. The clip had sparked mixed reactions among fans and critics alike. Back in July, a video circulated showing Nigam being asked about the ongoing student protests during a media interaction. He appeared visibly uncomfortable, responding briefly before stepping away from the question entirely. The moment triggered widespread discussion on social media, with some users questioning why he chose not to comment. Nigam has now clarified his reasoning in a new interview with Bombay Times. He explained that every discussion has its own appropriate time and setting. According to Nigam, he has followed one clear rule throughout his career, staying focused strictly on the purpose of whatever event he’s attending. He said that after three decades of working in Mumbai, he’s learned to always stick to the agenda of a given occasion. Nigam added that he avoids letting conversations drift toward unrelated topics during press interactions. At the time of the viral video, Nigam was attending an event honouring the late singer Pankaj Udhas. He felt discussing an unrelated political issue there would have been inappropriate given the occasion’s purpose. He said bringing up politics during a tribute dedicated to his mentor felt disrespectful to him personally. For Nigam, staying on-topic was not avoidance, but a matter of basic professional etiquette. Nigam also revealed a personal commitment he’s made regarding public commentary. He said he promised his father he would never comment on issues he doesn’t fully understand or have proper knowledge of. He clarified that this does not mean he avoids speaking up altogether. Nigam pointed to past instances where he’s taken clear public stances, including issues like loudspeaker regulations at religious sites and royalty rights for performing artists. He said he has taken plenty of stands throughout his career and has played a role in pushing for real systemic changes. Nigam maintained that silence on one particular issue doesn’t reflect indifference, but rather a conscious choice about when and where to speak. Reactions to his explanation have remained divided, with some praising his restraint and others still critical of his initial response.

  • | |

    Cappadocia to host annual hot air balloon festival

    ByJustpaste.in

    Türkiye’s famous UNESCO World Heritage region of Cappadocia is preparing to host the seventh annual Cappadocia Balloon Festival, featuring 30 special-shaped hot air balloons from 10 countries soaring above the region’s iconic fairy chimneys and rock formations. Organized by Türkiye’s Culture and Tourism Ministry, the four-day event is scheduled to run from July 30 to August 2. International balloon pilots and crews from the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, the Netherlands, Brazil, Slovakia, Austria, Poland, and Türkiye have begun arriving in the country as final preparations wrap up. The festival’s lineup includes balloons designed in unique figurative shapes, including the Turkish flag, an octopus, an owl, a clown, a chick, a wolf, a duck, a parrot, a rocket, a heart, and the Earth. The special-shaped balloons will ascend each morning at sunrise alongside the 156 standard commercial hot air balloons that operate daily in the region, returning in the evenings for illuminated “balloon glow” displays at the Pasabag Open-Air Museum. Highlighting the event’s distinct appeal, festival coordinator Mehmet Halis Aydogan explained how Cappadocia’s natural geography and existing flight operations set it apart from other international ballooning venues: “Balloon festivals are held in many parts of the world, including major events in the United States, France, Belgium, and Mexico. Cappadocia’s greatest advantage is its extraordinary landscape, where 156 balloons fly every day. It is a place where thousands of people come both to fly in hot air balloons and to watch them. When we decorate the skies with special-shaped balloons, it creates an incredible spectacle. That is what distinguishes us most from other festivals.” A key highlight of this year’s gathering will be the debut of a whale-shaped balloon designed by sixth-grade student Bengi Serra Kaya. Her entry won first prize in the “My Dream Balloon Design Competition,” organized for primary and middle school students, and the specially manufactured balloon will take its inaugural flight during the festival. Cappadocia remains one of the world’s premier hot air balloon destinations, drawing hundreds of thousands of international tourists annually. Organizers note that while global interest in the festival continues to rise, participation numbers are carefully managed to accommodate the region’s busy daily airspace safely.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *