Karachi, August 8, 2024 – In a pioneering collaboration, the Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce & Industry (OICCI) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Pakistan have forged an alliance to promote a more sustainable and inclusive future for Pakistan.
This partnership aims to drive initiatives focused on gender equality, diversity, inclusion, and social impact investments, in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed at a ceremony where OICCI CE/Secretary General, M. Abdul Aleem, expressed his optimism about the partnership. “Together with UNDP, we are committed to leveraging our collective expertise to create impactful research reports, advocacy campaigns, and knowledge-sharing events,” he stated.
UNDP Pakistan Resident Representative Dr. Samuel Rizk emphasized the growing potential of Pakistan’s market, stating, “The bankability of Pakistan is increasing, and this collaboration is a testament that businesses can be both profitable and socially responsible.”
OICCI has been a leader in climate advocacy in Pakistan, organizing the Pakistan Climate Conference in 2022 and 2023. Insights from these conferences, along with key takeaways from COP28, have been compiled into two comprehensive climate reports. These reports are crucial resources for policymakers and businesses, offering guidance on how to navigate towards a more sustainable future.
In addition to climate advocacy, OICCI has also been a strong advocate for women’s empowerment. The Chamber’s annual Women Empowerment Awards celebrate female entrepreneurs and leaders, promoting a business environment that is inclusive and supportive of women. Their White Paper, “Increasing Women’s Inclusion in the Pakistan Economy,” provides actionable recommendations to enhance gender equality and foster inclusive economic growth, aligning with UN SDGs 5 and 8.
Andrew Bailey, a member of the OICCI Managing Committee, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “OICCI’s goal is to foster an environment where businesses, government, and the public can thrive and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future for Pakistan. This partnership marks a significant step towards achieving our shared objectives and making a meaningful difference in the lives of the people we serve.”
The collaboration between OICCI and UNDP will focus on capacity building, policy research, advocacy, and public communication around themes such as green finance, climate resilience, energy, diversity & inclusion, and digital transformation. The ultimate goal is to support the government, development partners, and the private sector in mobilizing financing for development, particularly for SDGs, ESG, and climate investments.
