New heads appointed at SAFA meeting
The 86th Board Meeting of the South Asian Federation of Accountants, or SAFA — accompanied by a series of high-level committee meetings — was held today at Karachi, as per a press release. The event marked a significant milestone with the announcement of new leadership appointments and key deliberations aimed at advancing the accountancy profession in South Asia.
During the meeting, Ashfaq Yousuf Tola was appointed as the President of SAFA for 2025, with Mohammad Humayun Kabir assuming the role of Vice President. The appointments were announced by Dr Jai Kumar Batra, a chartered accountant and Permanent Secretary of SAFA, who emphasised the strategic direction and strong leadership these appointments bring to the federation for the year ahead.
A highlight of the proceedings was the special addresses by Jean Bouquot, President of the International Federation of Accountants, and Farrukh Rehman, President of ICAP, both of whom emphasised the transformative power of collaboration in addressing regional and global economic challenges. Their insightful perspectives underscored the pivotal role of the accountancy profession in fostering transparency, innovation, and sustainable growth while reaffirming the importance of strong partnerships between regional and international organisations.
The Board concluded with an ambitious vision for 2025 under its new leadership. Key priorities include promoting collaboration, enhancing governance, and building capacity to strengthen the accountancy profession across South Asia.
TPL and SFD’s mangrove park gets advisory board
Recognising the importance of mangroves as vital coastal ecosystems, the Sindh Forest Department (SFD) has established a landmark environmental initiative called the Mangrove Biodiversity Park, sponsored by TPL REIT Management Company, as per a press release. The park is located in the heart of Korangi Creek Karachi and aims to preserve and restore these invaluable habitats, foster public engagement with nature, and enhance coastal resilience.
The park has also announced the formation of an independent Advisory Board composed of experts from diverse fields to help guide the future development and progress of the project. The advisory board will provide expert advice on the park’s operations, environmental policies, and strategic direction. It will also focus on strengthening collaborations with academic institutions, non-government organisations, and global organisations to expand the reach and impact of the park’s programmes.
Shah Murad Aliani, Chairperson of the MBP Advisory Board, spoke at the conference saying, “Through collective expertise and collaboration, we aim to ensure that the Mangrove Biodiversity Park not only thrives as a sanctuary for local biodiversity but also serves as a model for sustainable ecological initiatives.”
Wexnet 2025 concludes in Pakistan
Wexnet 2025, a women-exclusive exhibition in Pakistan, brought together 200 women entrepreneurs under one roof, providing them with a platform to showcase their products, build network linkages, engage in mutually beneficial collaborations, and share experiences as per a press release. The event, organised to promote female entrepreneurship, highlighted the export potential of women-led businesses and fostered inter-provincial and international collaboration.
On the sidelines of Wexnet 2025, Federal Secretary of Commerce Jawad Paul and Secretary of Trade Development Authority of Pakistan Sheryar Taj held significant meetings with key stakeholders on the first day. Discussions included enhancing export opportunities, empowering women entrepreneurs, and fostering regional collaboration.
Published in Dawn, The Business and Finance Weekly, January 13th, 2025
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