The Pakistan Business Council (PBC) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP). The MoU between PBC, Pakistan's premier research based business advocacy body and ICAP - the leading regulator of the accountancy profession - is part of PBC's strategy to reach out and work together with reputable organisations to further the objective of nurturing sustainable growth of the economy.
As per the MoU both entities will collaborate on joint research projects, promote and recognize best practices in business management, corporate governance and responsible and sustainable business practices. In the latter context, PBC will work through its Centre of Excellence in Responsible Business.
The backdrop of the MoU is the increasingly tough business environment in which fiscal burden on the formal sector is getting heavier at the same time as the demands from corporate and other regulators are growing. Cooperation with ICAP whose members are in leading positions in the public and private sector will enhance the effectiveness of PBC's advocacy on promoting jobs, value-added exports, import substitution and the broadening of the tax base.
The MoU was signed by Muhammad Ali Tabba (Chairman PBC) and Nadeem Yusuf Adil (President ICAP). Arif Habib Director and Ehsan Malik CEO represented PBC whilst Khalilullah Shaikh (VP), Yacoob Suttar former President & Council Member, Riaz A Rehman Council Member and Abdul Malik (COO & Secretary) represented ICAP. Senior officials from both entities and members of PBC's Tax and Legal Committees were also present.
The PBC is the only research-based advocacy body that represents the largest private sector groups, both Pakistani and multinationals operating in this country. PBC research reports are shared regularly with the government and other stakeholders. Its members have a significant stake in the future of Pakistan and contribute every ninth rupee of GDP and nearly 20 percent to both export earnings and tax revenues. Further details are available on www.pbc.org.pk