ISLAMABAD: Freedom Gate Prosperity (FGP) and the Gilgit-Baltistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GBCCI) have joined hands to focus on youth and women entrepreneurship, climate resilience and sustainable development in Gilgit-Baltistan.

Both organisations formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tuesday at a ceremony in Islamabad in this regard.

The MoU was signed by Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of FGP Mohammad Anwar and GBCCI PresidentAshfaq Ahmed marking the beginning of a transformative collaboration focused on youth and women entrepreneurship, climate resilience and sustainable development in Gilgit-Baltistan, says a press release.

It said besides others, Dr Faiz Kakar, FGP Board chairman; Urooj Raza Sayyami, director FGP Board; and Farhan Jawaid, head of programmes FGP, participated in the ceremony. From GBCCI side, Mohammad Ali, chairman, Standing Committee on Mines and Minerals of GBCCI; Ali Akbar, chairman, Standing Committee on International Relations and Foreign Affairs GBCCI; Ghulam Nasir, executive committee member FPCCI, were also present on the occasion.

Highlighting the significance of the partnership, FGP CEO Mohammad Anwar stated: “Our collaboration with GBCCI reflects our firm belief that development must be led by the people it serves. We are investing in Gilgit-Baltistan’s greatest asset, its youth and women, by equipping them with entrepreneurial skills, green business models, and climate-smart solutions. This partnership is not just strategic; it’s a commitment to building a just and sustainable future for the region.”

Speaking on behalf of GBCCI, Ashfaq Ahmed welcomed the initiative and said: “We are proud to partner with Freedom Gate Prosperity in this meaningful alliance. Gilgit-Baltistan is full of entrepreneurial potential, especially among women and youth. Through this partnership, we aim to unlock that potential and support businesses that are not only profitable but also socially and environmentally responsible.”

Published in Dawn, May 28th, 2025