RAWALPINDI ( WNAM REPORT ): The Opticians Association of Pakistan (OAP) successfully organized the third National Eyewear Exhibition and Educational Conference, “OptiPak 2025,” at the Pearl Continental Hotel, Rawalpindi. The event brought together leading figures from across Pakistan’s optical industry, including traders, manufacturers, technicians, and professionals. The exhibition aimed to promote the growth of the eyewear sector in Pakistan, encourage the use of modern technology, and explore opportunities for international business expansion.
Zafar Iqbal Bakhtawari — Secretary General of the United Business Group (UBG) and former President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and industry — emphasized in his address that Pakistan earns nearly $31 billion annually through its workforce abroad. However, he urged that it is now time to shift focus from labor-based income to trade and entrepreneurship.
He called on the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and the Ministry of Commerce to support Pakistani opticians in establishing global market linkages and setting up international business branches to enhance Pakistan’s global image and increase foreign remittances. Bakhtawari further highlighted the immense potential for Pakistani opticians in African and Far East countries, where skilled professionals can find lucrative opportunities while contributing to the country’s foreign exchange earnings.
Advisor to the Prime Minister on Tourism, Sardar Yasir Ilyas Khan, lauded the role of Pakistan’s business community and said that strengthening the services sector would not only boost the national economy but also improve the country’s international standing. He reaffirmed the government’s full support for such initiatives, emphasizing that regular expos like OptiPak are vital for enhancing exports and advancing industry standards.
OAP Chairman Khalid Sohail Gulzari, in his remarks, shed light on the concept of the “Three O’s” and stated that the purpose of the association’s establishment is to align Pakistan’s optical professionals with modern global standards. He praised Zafar Bakhtawari for his leadership and contribution in obtaining the association’s license, noting that under his guidance, OAP has achieved remarkable progress within just three years — a momentum that will continue in the future.
Prominent figures including Ahsan Bakhtawari (former President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce), Waqar Bakhtawari, Haris Bakhtawari, and Salman Bakhtawari also attended the event. They were warmly welcomed by Chairman Khalid Sohail Gulzari, Abdul Rehman Siddiqui (former Senior Vice President, ICCI), and Rizwan Siddiqui.
The ceremony concluded with the distinguished guests visiting various stalls at the exhibition, showcasing advanced eyewear technologies, modern frames, lenses, and optical solutions. Attendees highly appreciated the innovation, quality, and professionalism demonstrated by Pakistani companies.
