RAWALPINDI, Aug 5: Rawalpindi Cantonment Board Vice President Zahid Bakhtawari has said that rejecting bribery and promoting ethical business practices are the foundation of a successful, transparent and strong commercial system.
He said honesty, adherence to law and mutual cooperation were essential for building a prosperous society and a stable economy. He added that if the business community adopted integrity as its guiding principle, it would not only improve the business environment but also strengthen public trust.
He expressed these views during a meeting with Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) President Usman Shaukat, Group Leader Sohail Altaf and other prominent members of the business community.
On the occasion, RCCI office-bearers presented a bouquet of flowers to Zahid Bakhtawari in recognition of his services and extended their best wishes. Shahzad Chaudhry, Vice President of Markazi Tanzeem-e-Tajran Cantt Registered Rawalpindi, Vice Chairman Mateen Khan and Chairman Rafique Bhattia also accompanied him.
During the meeting, the participants held detailed discussions on matters of mutual interest, challenges being faced by the business community, ways to promote commercial activities and the formulation of a joint strategy to address these issues.
Speaking on the occasion, RCCI Group Leader Sohail Altaf described Zahid Bakhtawari as a valuable asset to the business community and said the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry would continue to support him in every positive initiative.
He said Bakhtawari had been effectively representing the rights and concerns of both the business community and the residents of the cantonment. He added that his performance during the past nine months was clear evidence of his commitment to public service.
RCCI President Usman Shaukat said the Chamber took pride in Zahid Bakhtawariโs performance. He praised his dedication to public service, transparent governance and significant efforts to resolve the issues faced by traders, saying these contributions would be remembered for a long time.
Raja Amir Sabha also appreciated Zahid Bakhtawariโs efforts and assured him of his full support and cooperation. Meanwhile, Sohail Altaf invited him to work closely with the Pervez Aslam Group and extend full cooperation in the upcoming Chamber of Commerce elections.
Zahid Bakhtawari said his doors were always open to the public and the business community, and anyone facing an issue could contact him directly. He assured the participants that every citizen dealing with the Rawalpindi Cantonment Board would be treated fairly, transparently and strictly in accordance with the law.
He described bribery as a social evil that weakened institutions and society. He urged citizens to immediately report any employee of the Rawalpindi Cantonment Board found demanding or accepting a bribe so that prompt legal action could be taken against those responsible.
Referring to the prevailing economic challenges, Bakhtawari said the business community was currently facing numerous difficulties which required practical and effective solutions. He said traders were the backbone of Pakistanโs economy and their issues should be addressed on a priority basis.
He further said traders deserved respect and should be consulted in all major decisions to help create a more conducive environment for business growth and economic development.
