Inaugural Session

Addressing the inaugural session, Dr Hasan Sohaib Murad, Rector UMT and Chairman IBCE, said that if we want to develop the economy with a knowledge focus, and bring about a strategic transformation, then we need a platform that converges all key players – policy makers, businesses, civil society members, academia, government, etc. Events like the IBCE are ideally suited to ignite and inspire young minds. Dr Hasan added that the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) presents immense economic opportunities and it is the job of the academia to turn human resources into valuable human capital. He said that university students are the best means to achieve future growth and change the development index of the country by driving its economy and enhancing exports.

Abid H K Shirwani, Director General UMT and Chief Organizer IBCE, said that UMT has scored a first by organizing the IBCE 2016 to create synergy in order to move the development agenda forward and add value to Pakistani products. He said that with the help of our Chinese and Turkish brothers, the IBCE is all set to drive technology transfer, facilitate innovation and boost entrepreneurship.

Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Reform, complimented UMT for putting up such a great show. He said that creativity and innovation are the two key drivers of change. In an age of innovation, brain power gives you the winning edge. That is why universities have to lead societies to innovation and success.  He said that the 2025 Vision envisaged by the government looks at Pakistani society where we have brought the knowledge platform at the convergence of all stakeholders.

In 2013, a Newsweek report labeled Pakistan as the most dangerous country on Earth. Today, all major publications are calling it as the next emerging economy in Asia. The country today has the highest ever reserves of foreign exchange. Pakistan is getting a new identity as an IT power house. Built around innovation and creativity, the $50 billion dollar CPEC investment and development package has great potential. He concluded by saying that Pakistan is rising and it’s time for the youth to become entrepreneurs. Self belief, positive thinking, passion to achieve goals, ability to respond to change, hard work and perseverance are the factors that will drive success.

Ilnur Cevik, Chief Advisor to the President of Turkey, said that Pakistan and Turkey share special ties that are based on brotherly relations rather than on any strategic interests. He added that 100+ Turkish companies are operating in Pakistan and it would be in the best interests of both countries to help out each other by enhancing this economic co-operation.