Karachi: At the 6th AlBaraka Forum Regional Conference, H.E. Mr. Muhammad Atif Hanif, Chief Executive Officer of Al Baraka Bank Pakistan Ltd, underscored the banks commitment to sustainability during the Leadership Talk by outlining a strategic approach that aligns Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles with Maqasid al-Shariah.

Addressing participants, Mr. Hanif emphasized that sustainability is being embedded into the banks operations through practical, Shariah-compliant initiatives aimed at long-term economic and social impact. He highlighted key measures including advisory services for family business succession planning, compliance-driven green banking practices, and large-scale plantation drives to support environmental conservation.

The CEO also shed light on Al Baraka Bank Pakistans efforts in promoting Shariah-compliant cross-border trade finance and sustainable tourism, noting their potential to strengthen exports and broaden economic opportunities. He pointed out that Pakistan possesses significant unrealized potential in climate finance, which can be unlocked through the development of viable and bankable green projects.

Mr. Hanif stressed that addressing climate risks requires coordinated efforts from financial institutions, policymakers and the private sector, adding that sustainable finance can play a pivotal role in enhancing Pakistans long-term economic resilience.

The Leadership Talk was part of a broader discussion at the conference focusing on responsible finance, ethical banking and regional collaboration in advancing sustainable development.