Lahore — The Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) has announced the appointment of Mr. Saleem Shakir as Convener of its newly reconstituted Standing Committee on “Human Rights for Minorities” for the 2024–25 term. The formal notification, signed by LCCI President Mr. Mian Abuzar Shad, tasks Mr. Shakir with forming a ten-member panel within the next 30 days to guide the Chamber’s outreach and advocacy on minority-rights issues.

In his letter to Mr. Shakir, President Shad conveyed confidence in his abilities to “utilize your best talents for the wellbeing of the business fraternity,” and provided Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the committee’s work. He also directed Mr. Shakir to liaise with the LCCI Research & Development Department for coordination and support.

Upon receiving the appointment, Mr. Saleem Shakir expressed his gratitude to President Shad and to senior Chamber and business leaders for entrusting him with this important role. He specifically thanked:

• Mr. Ali Hassam Asghar, Chairman of Pak-Britain Group (PBG)

• Mr. Shahid Nazir, LCCI Vice President

• Mr. Usman Malik, Chief Organizer of PBG

• Mr. Haris Ateeq, Vice Chairman PBG and former LCCI Vice President

• Mr. Muhammad Yaseen, President of the Sewing Machine Association

• Mr. Syed Zahid Bukhari

• Mr. Imran Bashir, Vice Chairman PBG and President of Hall Road Association

• Mr. Raja Hassan Akhtar

• Mr. Mian Imran Asghar, Secretary of PBG

Mr. Shakir remarked, “I am honored by this appointment and look forward to working closely with fellow committee members to raise awareness of minority-rights challenges within Pakistan’s commercial sector. Together, we will seek meaningful policy recommendations and initiatives that foster inclusivity and equal opportunity.”

The Standing Committee on “Human Rights for Minorities” is charged with advising the LCCI on best practices, organizing events and roundtable discussions, and issuing position papers on legislative and regulatory matters affecting minority communities in the province. The Chamber has underscored that this move reflects its commitment to social responsibility alongside economic development.