A new chapter has opened in economic cooperation and friendship between Korea and Pakistan.
On August 31, 2024, the second presidential inauguration ceremony of the Pakistan Chamber of Commerce in Korea (PCCK) was successfully held at Surawon in Mungwang-myeon, Goesan-gun, Chungcheongbuk-do. This event was more than just a leadership change; it marked a significant milestone, overcoming the temporary hiatus caused by the global pandemic and reorganizing the organization to embark on a new leap forward.
Gratitude for the Dedication That Laid the Foundation: Farewell Address by Inaugural Chairman Lee Jang-hee
PCCK launched in earnest with its inauguration ceremony in 2019 and the inauguration of its first president, Lee Jang-hee, in 2020. However, the global COVID-19 pandemic has limited many activities. In his farewell address, Lee Jang-hee expressed his gratitude and honor as the first president, saying, "Despite the many restrictions imposed by COVID-19 worldwide during my term, I am grateful and honored that PCCK has reached this point today." He added, "I promise to love and support PCCK anytime, anywhere."
While this period may have been a period of superficial cessation of activity for PCCK, internally, it was a time of strategic reorganization, reassessing the organization's direction and preparing for a greater leap forward. The dedication and hard work of founding Chairman Lee Jang-hee laid a crucial cornerstone for PCCK to overcome these difficult times and emerge as a stronger organization.
A Vision for the Future: Inaugural Address by Lee Jong-kwang, the Second Chairman
In his inaugural address, newly inaugurated second president Lee Jong-kwang clearly outlined the future vision for the PCCK. He stated, "Building on the foundation laid so far, I will pursue international exchanges and business support between Korea and Pakistan, support for Pakistani Koreans and students, and management and training of Pakistani seasonal workers. By doing so, I will make the Pakistan Chamber of Commerce in Korea a bridge between Korea and Pakistan."
In particular, the specific goal of "managing and training Pakistani seasonal workers" is highly significant. The fact that PCCK's official headquarters is located in Goesan County, North Chungcheong Province, rather than Seoul, demonstrates Chairman Lee Jong-gwang's strong commitment to supporting the practical needs of Pakistani citizens, who play a crucial role in Korea's agricultural and regional industries, beyond mere business networking in the Seoul metropolitan area. This underscores PCCK's differentiated strategy of establishing itself as a platform for practical exchange and cooperation, encompassing the grassroots of bilateral relations.
Action Plan: 14 Key Tasks in 4 Areas
Upon taking office, Chairman Lee Jong-kwang announced a concrete roadmap for PCCK, "14 Key Tasks in Four Areas." This comprehensive action plan encompasses everything from the organization's financial independence to enhancing member interests and contributing to society, supporting PCCK's new vision.
PCCK Strategic Roadmap: Four Key Areas and 14 Key Tasks
| 4 major fields | Key Core Tasks |
|---|---|
| 1. Support for overseas export companies | 1. Contributing to regional development through support for overseas export companies. 2. Implementing self-generated revenue-generating businesses in each region and strengthening the operation of regional associations. 3. Promoting revision of the Articles of Incorporation to enable support from the government and local governments. 4. Establish communication channels with export companies, including Pakistan, and expand regional membership. |
| 2. PCCK with Empathy, Consideration, and Participation | 5. Fostering a PCCK community culture of trust and harmony 6. Establishing a real-time communication channel through the full opening of the website. 7. Strengthening ties with local governments and foreign organizations through regular meetings. |
| 3. Strengthening the status of members through improved welfare and rights. | 8. Strengthening efforts to secure land for the construction of a standalone PCCK hall. 9. Support for Overseas Immigrants by Expanding PCCK Funds 10. Signing of agreements with medical institutions to reduce member hospital costs. 11. Developing strong support activities to realize international cooperation. |
| 4. PCCK, respected for its service and dedication | 12. Support for socially vulnerable groups such as marginalized groups and multicultural families. 13. Volunteer activities for community development and harmony. 14. Fostering a warm international culture and community service |
Following the inauguration ceremony, Chairman Lee Jong-gwang and other officials visited Goesan County Office and discussed opportunities for mutual human, economic, and cultural exchanges with County Mayor Song In-heon, reaffirming their commitment to cooperation with the local community. This is the first step toward PCCK's commitment to producing tangible results through close partnerships with not only the central government but also local governments. We look forward to your continued interest and anticipation for the PCCK's vibrant activities under its new leadership.
