Unopposed Election of Rahim Shah as President, Muhammad Kazim as Vice President, and Mian Sagheer Ahmed as General Secretary for the 2025–2027 Term By: Abid Siddique Chaudhry The World Ambassador ____________ Pakistan Business Association Korea (PBA) was founded in 2001 and officially registered with the Korean government in 2007. The organization emerged at a time when Pakistani businesspeople in South Korea were facing multiple challenges—such as visa issues, lack of business guidance, and limited legal assistance. PBA’s core mission was not only to resolve the issues faced by Pakistani entrepreneurs but also to promote Pakistan’s positive image in Korea, serve the welfare of the community, and strengthen cultural identity. Founding Years and Pioneer Members The founding president, Shahid Bashir, along with committed individuals—Asghar Bangi, Hafiz Waheed, Muhammad Ali, Mahar Sarwar, Arif Munir, Saleem Butt, Zulfiqar Khan, Sahibzada Haji, Khalid Khan, the late Israr Khan, and others—laid the foundation of the association and also drafted its constitution. Initial meetings were held at the Itaewon Mosque, friends’ offices, and restaurants. The first office was established in Yongsan-gu, Seoul. Diplomatic Relations and National Representation In 2005, during the visit of President General Pervez Musharraf to Korea, PBA represented the Pakistani business community at a formal dinner hosted by the Pakistani Embassy. Later, during Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz’s visit, PBA organized a reception in his honor and presented him with a commemorative shield. Reactivation and Leadership Transitions After the founding president left Korea, the organization became inactive for a time. However, a group of like-minded individuals revived PBA and elected Hafiz Waheed as president. Under his leadership, the association was restructured. Following his tenure, Mudasar Ali Cheema was elected president in the subsequent elections. With a young and energetic team—including Sabir Khattak, Mahar Sarwar, Shafiq Khan, Nadeem Malik, Raja Aamir Iqbal, Mian Sagheer Ahmed, Javed Malik, Azeem Gujar, Jehanzaib Khan, and others—PBA was transformed into a vibrant and proactive organization. In the next phase, Mudasar Ali Cheema and Sabir Khattak were again elected unopposed as President and General Secretary, respectively. Support from the Embassy and Cultural Uplift With consistent support from Pakistani Ambassadors Nasrullah, Rahim Hayat Qureshi, and Mumtaz Zahra Baloch, Pakistan’s image in Korea saw a significant uplift. National festivals began to be celebrated with enthusiasm, giving the Pakistani community in Korea renewed recognition and pride. Organizational Structure and Democratic Values PBA has always functioned as a democratic and inclusive platform. It is not owned by any individual but consists of hundreds of active members across Korea. The association established regional wings to build stronger connections with Pakistanis residing in different cities. In recognition of their outstanding contributions, Mudasar Ali Cheema and Sabir Khattak were unanimously appointed Chairman and Vice Chairman, respectively. In the following elections, Jehanzaib Khan was elected President, Hameed ul Haq as Vice President, and Mian Sagheer Ahmed as General Secretary. Under their leadership, PBA actively participated in major events, including the Overseas Pakistanis Conference held in Islamabad. Latest Developments: 2025–2027 Elections With the conclusion of the current leadership term in June 2025, new elections were announced as per the PBA constitution. An Election Committee was formed, comprising Mahar Sarwar, Asghar Bangi, Shakeel Ahmed, and Malik Nadeem. Since no other candidates submitted nomination papers, the following individuals were elected unopposed for the 2025–2027 term: Rahim Shah – President Muhammad Kazim – Vice President Mian Sagheer Ahmed – General Secretary A Message of Hope, Unity, and Progress PBA’s success is a testament to the fact that with sincere intentions, honest leadership, and a united team, success is inevitable. The association remains committed to its mission of elevating the dignity, voice, and presence of Pakistan and the Pakistani community in South Korea. May Allah Almighty grant continued success to PBA and to all overseas Pakistanis working around the world to raise the stature of their beloved homeland. Heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected team of Pakistan Business Association Korea, with hopes that the organization continues to shine as a beacon of unity and pride for Pakistanis across Korea.