Background

The Heads of State of South Asian countries at the 11th SAARC Summit held at Katmandu, Nepal in 2002, renewed their commitment to encourage private sector participation and assured full support for their economic initiatives. Their reaffirmation of the commitment culminated in the 1st SAARC Business Leaders Conclave. The idea of convening SAARC Business Leaders Conclave was put forth by Mr. Macky Hashim, former President of the SCCI in the year 2004, which was materialized on November 17-18, 2005 when the First SBLC was organized in New Delhi, India. The first SBLC emerged as the most prestigious event of the SCCI and DAVOS of South Asian Community.

Objectives:

  • Foster closer contacts and interactions between young entrepreneurs in South Asia to enhance regional fellowship and cooperation.
  • Introduce and share innovative ideas and business models adaptable by young entrepreneurs in key growth areas.
  • Support SAARC CCI's efforts to promote economic cooperation and integrate SAARC into the global economy.
  • Provide experiential learning opportunities through idea sharing, discussions, and interactions with business professionals across South Asia.
  • Build a network of new-generation entrepreneurs proficient in enterprise development, information technology, communication, entrepreneurship, and global trade.
  • Establish an organized platform for young business professionals to actively contribute to the development of businesses and industry in their communities.

PARTNERS OF THE CONCLAVE:

  1. National Chambers/ Federations (Member bodies of SCCI)
  2. Allied and Apex Bodies of SAARC
  3. International Development Partners
  4. Corporate and Business Entities

OUTCOME:

To collect set of policy recommendation worked out by various sessions and to present as a fresh input on behalf of the Private Sector to Government and SAARC Secretariat for consideration in the forthcoming SAARC Summit.

Glimpses of Previous Editions of SBLC: