SAARC Chamber of Commerce & Industry: Message from Mahesh Kumar Saharia

I am delighted that the SAARC Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCI) Headquarters Building will soon be inaugurated in Islamabad, Pakistan. Since the inception of SAARC in 1985 and the establishment of SCCI in 1992, duly recognized by the SAARC Secretariat, the organization has played a vital role in fostering regional cooperation and development.

Through research, consultation, and consensus-building, SCCI has made significant contributions to key regional initiatives such as SAPTA, paving the way for SAFTA and strengthening intra-regional trade. I had the privilege of being closely associated with these efforts and of serving as Chairman of the Finance Committee for seven consecutive terms.

During this period, the vision for a permanent headquarters took shape, culminating in the generous allotment of a prime site by the Government of Pakistan. I would also like to place on record my deep appreciation for the invaluable contributions and guidance of our past Leaders-Late Shri Kanti Poddar, Mr. Macky Hashim, Mr. lftikhar Ali Malik, and Mr. Zubair M. Malik whose wisdom and commitment were instrumental in advancing the mission of SCCI. This occasion is a matter of great personal satisfaction, and I am confident that SCCI will again in future continue to play a meaningful and impactful role in advancing economic cooperation and prosperity across the South Asian region. Wish SCCI great future & contribution.

(Mahesh Kumar Saharia, Former Chairman: SAARC CCI (Finance & Accounts Committee) & Honorary Life Member Chairman, SAARC Business Leaders Conclave)

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026