I am pleased to be writing this note to introduce myself as the new Secretary General of the Overseas Chamber of Commerce and Industry, having taken the responsibility since February 2010. It is indeed my good fortune to have joined at a time when the Chamber is celebrating 150th year of its existence. It is not only the long history of OICCI but the highly positive contribution that it has made over the years in promoting Pakistan as a destination of choice for foreign investors which motivates us to continuously raise its profile.

Direct Foreign Investment (FDI) is key for growth and development for any developing economy. Pakistan is in greater need of FDI to maintain a decent growth in its economy especially after the recent global and regional financial problems. OICCI right from its early days, but more importantly in recent times, has been a vital link between the policy makers in the Government and the foreign investors in the country. The chamber has also been conducting some vital research based on feedback from its members to share and guide some key stakeholders, especially in the government, as to how OICCI members feel about the vital issues facing the business in Pakistan. Our Investment Survey 2009and Perception Survey 2009were well received and appreciated for its usefulness in improving the policy framework in the country. The comprehensive OICCI Taxation Proposals is another key policy document to assist authorities in streamlining the taxation structure. All these publications are available to our members and stakeholders. Our members also regularly get OICCI regular publications which are very useful in keeping them up to date on the environment and OICCI activities.

OICCI has been facilitating the government authorities to timely understand and resolve the major collective issues and concerns of our members. We strive for regular interaction with relevant authorities, sensitizing them on problem areas and trends so that all matters of policy or implementation are proactively resolved.

We are happy to note that the recent 2009 Global Competitiveness Index based on a survey under taken on behalf of the World Economic Forum has ranked Pakistan at 24 on "Strength of Investor Protection", 24 also on "Domestic Market Size Index" and 22 on "Total Tax Rate" out of a total of 133 countries.

OICCI is always very keen to raise its standard and therefore would welcome feedback from its members and key stakeholders to further help the cause of foreign investment and development in the country.

We look forward to your feedback so that we are able to deliver better than we have done before.

M. Abdul Aleem
CE/Secretary General