CFO® conference 2026: Message from Muhammad Aurangzeb, Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Pakistan

I extend my sincere congratulations to the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP) on hosting the ICAP CFO Conference 2026, one of Pakistan’s premier forums for thought provoking conversations by business and financial leadership. Over the years, this conference has emerged as a vital platform bringing together distinguished national and international experts, industry leaders, and academia to exchange insights and perspectives on issues shaping the future of finance and economic governance.

In today’s challenging global and domestic economic environment, the importance of resilience, discipline, and adaptability cannot be overstated. For Pakistan, steering the economy towards stability while laying the foundations for sustainable growth requires strong, forward-looking corporate structures and leadership. In this context, the role of CFOs has become increasingly strategic, extending well beyond traditional financial stewardship to encompass transformation, innovation, and value creation.

I am particularly pleased to note that this year’s conference theme, “The New Playbook – Adapt, Innovate, Elevate,” aptly reflects the realities facing organizations today. It emphasizes the need for finance leaders to rethink conventional approaches, embrace responsible technological innovation—including the ethical use of artificial intelligence—and build agile operating models capable of navigating uncertainty. This theme strongly aligns with the Government of Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to promote fiscal responsibility, economic reform, and sustainable development.

I also commend ICAP for organizing the Professional Excellence Awards (PEA), an admirable initiative that recognizes outstanding leadership, professional excellence, and the global impact of ICAP members. In closing, I would like to express my appreciation to Mr. Samiullah Siddiqui, President ICAP, Mr. Muhammad Zaid Kaliya, Chairman PAIB Committee ICAP, and all those involved in organizing this important conference and the PEA ceremony. I extend my best wishes for the continued success of the CFO Conference and trust that its deliberations will contribute meaningfully to strengthening financial leadership and economic progress in Pakistan.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026