Ashfaq Tola (centre) with Usman Alam and Yasir Gadit at the event in Dubai.

Inayat-ur-Rahman, Business Editor

Pakistan has always had strong ties with UAE, and hence it is certainly desirous to further strengthen inter-nation relations through collaborations across various segments. This was stated by Ashfaq Tola, President, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Pakistan (ICAP), during an exclusive interview with Gulf Today, further stating that UAE has always been a strong pillar of support and continuously contributed towards the sustenance of our nation.

Ashfaq mentioned with regards to UAE being a hub for investment, “UAE offers favourable environment for businesses which have enticed investors, and its impressive evolution over the years has made the country as an international corporate centre, a cosmopolitan retail, leisure destination and a global hub of connectivity with strong and transparent regulations”

He commended and complimented UAE for staging the Expo 2020 Dubai and it being so wonderful and successful despite facing the tremendous challenge of COVID – 19 pandemic.

Tola disclosed the plans of ICAP to setup its main base in Dubai, enhancing its accessibility for the region. Highlighting the key roles of ICAP, he mentioned that the institute was setup in 1961 to regulate the profession of accounting in Pakistan which wasn’t possible without the vision and the foresight held by our predecessors that today are regarded as the premier regulatory body for the development and regulation of the profession, which began with a few members to currently more than 9500 members.

Usman Alam, Partner Assurance & Compliance, athGADLANG added that, “Long standing relations and the resolve to strength them should continuously be worked upon” and expressed his consent with Tola’s comments regarding UAEs growth over the years and added that “UAE has forever worked towards being the best in every aspect”. Yasir Gadit, Partner Financial Accounting and Advisory Services and Former Chairman, ICAP UAE further added that “UAE is the epicenter of dreams.

"Every success of the nation, from the mega event Expo 2020 to the successful orbit entry maneuver, is a constant reminder of hard work and perseverance. Pakistan is immensely grateful for a friend like UAE.”