President Asif Ali Zardari has bestowed the prestigious Hilal-e-Imtiaz, Pakistan’s second-highest civilian award, upon Dubai-based businessman Umar Farooq Zahoor in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the country’s economy. Zahoor’s efforts, particularly in attracting foreign direct investment worth hundreds of millions of dollars, played a key role in securing this honor.
The president had formally approved Zahoor’s nomination for the Hilal-e-Imtiaz (Crescent of Excellence) in August last year. On Pakistan Day, he was among more than 100 distinguished individuals—both local and foreign—who were conferred civil awards at a special investiture ceremony held at the President House in Islamabad.
Driving Foreign Investment into Pakistan
The Hilal-e-Imtiaz was conferred on Umar Farooq Zahoor in recognition of his role in attracting substantial foreign investment into Pakistan’s economy over the last three years. According to official sources, Zahoor has been instrumental in bringing in hundreds of millions of dollars in direct foreign investment, significantly benefiting key economic sectors such as infrastructure, logistics, and port development.
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Additionally, it is reported that Zahoor is involved in projects valued at over $2 billion across various industries, including energy, agriculture, IT, distribution, and real estate. His deep ties with the Gulf region have been instrumental in strengthening Pakistan’s bilateral economic relations with Middle Eastern countries. His extensive regional network and diplomatic expertise have facilitated smoother investment channels, fostering economic collaboration between Pakistan and Gulf nations.
A Moment of Pride for Zahoor
Upon receiving the award, Umar Farooq Zahoor expressed his gratitude and pride, emphasizing the significance of this recognition.
“This is a moment of immense honor and a great blessing for me,” Zahoor remarked. “I take pride in having contributed nearly $700 million in foreign investment to Pakistan over the past three years. Being acknowledged by my homeland with such a prestigious honor is a source of great pride and humility for me, my family, and my friends.”
He reiterated his unwavering commitment to Pakistan’s economic growth and international reputation, stating, “I remain dedicated to doing everything within my capacity to support Pakistan’s progress on the global stage.”
Global Humanitarian Efforts and UN Recognition
Beyond his economic contributions, Umar Farooq Zahoor has also made a mark on the international humanitarian front. Recently, he was appointed as a Pro Bono Ambassador at Large by the Intergovernmental Institution for the Use of Micro-algae Spirulina Against Malnutrition (IIMSAM)—an autonomous observer to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
According to an official letter from IIMSAM’s Permanent Secretary-General, Remigio Maradona, Zahoor has been entrusted with promoting Spirulina, a nutrient-rich microalga, to combat global malnutrition. His role includes overseeing the free distribution of Spirulina, focusing on underserved communities, particularly in Pakistan.
IIMSAM, granted observer status by ECOSOC Resolution 2003, plays a crucial role in global food security and malnutrition prevention. Zahoor’s appointment aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for 2020-2030, reinforcing his commitment to both economic and humanitarian causes.
The article was received directly from the reporter.