DUBAI: Index Exchange marked Pakistan’s 77th Independence Day with a grand celebration and a briefing on the ongoing success of their groundbreaking campaign, ‘Iss Baar, Hundi Pe Waar’, aimed at combating illegal remittances.
The event, held in the presence of the Pakistani expatriate community, business leaders, and distinguished guests, highlighted the significant strides made in raising awareness about the importance of legal remittances.
The event was graced by the presence of H.E. Mr. Faisal Niaz Tirmizi, Ambassador of Pakistan to the UAE, who lauded Index Exchange for their pioneering efforts in the fight against illegal remittances.
In his address, Ambassador Tirmizi emphasised the detrimental impact of illegal remittance channels like hundi and hawala on Pakistan’s economy. He noted that many expatriates are unaware of the illegality of these practices and stressed the importance of using legal channels to support Pakistan during critical times.
“We salute our blue-collar expatriates who are indeed the ‘unsung heroes’ for using legal channels to send money back home. Campaigns like ‘Iss Baar, Hundi Pe Waar’ launched by Index Exchange are crucial in raising awareness, and we, as the Pakistani mission in the UAE, fully support these efforts,” said Ambassador Tirmizi.
Over 400,000 Pakistani expatriates have taken a pledge against illegal remittances and have actively participated in a series of awareness and entertainment activities organised by Index Exchange as part of this campaign.
The event was attended by officials of Al Hail Holding Group and Index Exchange management and board and representatives from the Pakistan Business Council, prominent Pakistani businessmen, members of various Pakistani associations, and officials of Pakistani banks.
Humayun Murad, Executive Director of Index Exchange, expressed his gratitude towards the community, stating, “We have been serving the community for the last 48 years and are committed to continuing our mission of promoting legal remittances and supporting Pakistan’s economy.”
Syed Abdus Salam, Chief Operating Officer of Index Exchange, emphasised the campaign’s focus on strengthening Pakistan’s economy through increased legal remittances. He stated, “The campaign against illegal remittances is a reflection of our commitment, aimed at bolstering the economy of Pakistan by encouraging legal remittance channels.”
Mir K Rasool, Chief Business Officer of Index Exchange, delivered a comprehensive presentation on the campaign, detailing the rationale behind it, the strategies employed, and the impactful results achieved. He highlighted that legal remittances are a lifeline for millions of families in Pakistan, providing essential financial support and contributing to the country’s economic growth. “With the support of Abu Dhabi Police, Dubai Police, and other stakeholders, we have been successful in raising widespread awareness, and we are hopeful to see a significant increase in legal remittances.”
The event also saw the honouring of business community leaders and professionals, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony to celebrate Pakistan’s 77th Independence Day. The occasion was not only a celebration of the nation’s independence but also a reaffirmation of the community’s commitment to supporting Pakistan’s economy through legal channels.
