Sajjad Ahmad Khan
Lal Dino Mari Baloch, an internationally renowned industrialist and business mogul, following discussions with like-minded friends, laid the foundation for the Baloch International Congress Trust (BICT). Outright, let me state that it is an international think tank in its very elementary features and not a charity organisation. Why was this think tank necessary, and what are its objectives? In this article, we will shed light on these fundamental points. I consider it necessary to mention here that I myself am the provincial president of this think tank. The BICT began with a small group of individuals, but now it has burgeoned out from the borders of Pakistan. The think tank is currently operational in almost 26 countries in terms of membership and advisory services. BICT has now become a stimulating platform from which fountains of new ideas emerge. You must have noticed that the word ‘trust’ has been made part of its name. Actually, the members yearned for a think tank that would be more than just an advisory body; rather, it would actively work for the welfare of the underprivileged population as well. Let me pinpoint here that this is not a charity organisation, though it performs charitable operations extensively. This was the fundamental driver behind their decision to add the suffix ‘trust’ to its name. The affluent members of this trust are engaged in philanthropy and charitable giving by assisting the have-nots in various ways. Lal Dino Mari Baloch, while stressing the members of the group, says, ‘Nearby, there are a lot of destitute individuals. Although attempts are being made to assist them by governments and other international agencies, much work remains to be done. I believe that we should make every effort to end hunger and poverty. Therefore, in addition to our usual lobbying, advisory, and research activities, every BICT member should be involved in charitable endeavours’.
Baloch is a technocrat and a broad thinker. He says, ‘Don’t give fish to the poor; teach him to fish, and he will always be able to earn a decent living’. This is the reason why BICT’s platform always highlights the importance of vocational training. Being the chairman of a think tank, Mr. Baloch suggests that Pakistan should contact foreign countries to acquire the latest vocational training. Chairman Lal Dino Mari Baloch says that he can talk about this with the governments of China, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. Due to the word ‘Balochistan’ in the name of this think tank, many people fall into confusion and think that BICT is limited only to Balochistan, whereas the truth is that this think tank covers the whole of Pakistan without any discrimination. It works for everyone regardless of borders, language, colour, or race. At this juncture, I consider it important to clarify that the chairman of this think tank, Mr. Lal Dino Mari Baloch, belongs to the royal family of Khairpur Mirs, Sindh. Mr. Baloch is recognised as an international figure and is known for his great love for Pakistan as an ambassador of peace.
Now the question definitely springs to mind: what is the first and foremost requirement to be a member of this think tank? The answer is: being a patriotic is the basic requirement for joining this think tank and expressing the commitment that none of its members will ever support any movement or philosophy that threatens the integrity of the country.
The following are the primary objectives of the BICT: This think tank’s primary objective is to promote ideas globally that will encourage investment in order to end poverty and reduce the Pakistan’s debt. Secondly, the relationship between Pakistan and China is a priority for this research tank. This think group presents suggestions for improving relations between Pakistan and China diplomatically and fostering trade between the two nations. BICT believes that Pakistan is extremely fortunate to have China, a rising global power, as its neighbour. Both countries understand each other well when it comes to foreign affairs. Due to the changes taking place in the region, the friendship between Pakistan and China is getting stronger. Considering these ground realities, this think tank considers Pakistan-China friendship as indispensable.
Being the main focus of the think tank, BICT is enthusiastically working on good governance, emphasising zero tolerance for corruption, which is sure to lead to rapid change in general administration to handle various issues. Low corruption and good governance will act as powerful tools to attract investors from all over the world. This proposed change can rightly be called a step towards a sustainable economy.
The think tank is working on innovative ways to create employment opportunities, including proposing new industries, honing skills, promoting indigenous enterprises, business linkage development, and growth in the IT sector. The platform is very active on the academic front and is actively seeking more scholarship opportunities from universities in China, Hong Kong, and Malaysia.
BICT has a very serious stance on Balochistan’s economic situation and deteriorating law and order situation. The think tank is in the process of furnishing tangible suggestions to the government for the eradication of poverty and the restoration of peace in the province.
One of the objectives of this think tank is to make best use of the CPEC project and provide full protection to Chinese citizens living in Pakistan. BICT welcomes Chinese engineers and other professionals to help us develop our technology.
Moreover, BICT sees it as its utmost duty to counter any propaganda against the Pakistan Army. The BICT considers it a part of its role to support the Pakistan Army on all fronts. The BICT vows to stand behind the Pak army, come what may.
