Dr. Mohammad Yousuf Niazi, Minister of Hajj and Religious Affairs and the Mayor of Kabul, Mr. Mohammad Younus Nawandish were recognized for their achievements by the Chamber and awarded with the private sector’s highest honor. More than 250 people including government officials, private sector representatives, social and political dignitaries, foreign guests, and ACCI leadership attended the award ceremony held at the Kabul Serena Hotel.
In his welcome remarks, Mr. Mohammad Qurban Haqjo, ACCI Chief Executive Officer said,
“On behalf of the Afghanistan private sector I am honored and happy that we are hosting today two prominent executives of the government of Afghanistan and we would like to acknowledge their contributions by giving them the private sector Supreme Medal.” Mr. Haqjo then briefed the audience on the achievements of the recipients.
Next, Mr. Mahmood Karzai, First Vice-Chairman of ACCI’s Board of Directors congratulated Minister Niazi for his accomplishments on the Hajj process and Mayor Nawandish for his efforts to rehabilitate the city of Kabul. He appreciated both for their tireless and honest efforts.
“Their success is a good example of the productive cooperation between the government and private sector in Afghanistan. We are pleased that some private sector organizations were instrumental in delivering seamless services for our Hajjis and we congratulate them for their excellent work.” Mr. Karzai then presented ACCI Supreme Medal to Dr. Niazi who expressed his gratitude for the Chamber initiative and added that the honor of the Award goes to all the people who played a role in making the Hajj experience a success.
Following this, Mr. Khan Jan Alokozai, Vice-Chairman of the Chamber’s Board presented to Mayor Nawandish also, the ACCI Supreme Medal. The Mayor expressed his thanks to the Chamber and linked the award to his administration’s effort to combat corruption and inefficient bureaucracy within the Kabul municipality. He proceeded to outline programs that will be undertaken next year and promised more progress to remake the face of Kabul. Mayor Nawandish asked the private sector to cooperate with the municipality to rehabilitate the city, especially in the building of intersections and recreation parks.
The awards ceremony concluded with the recognition and distribution of appreciation letters to a number of municipality and ministry staff who demonstrated high-levels of competency and skill in their respective positions.
