In a major move to accelerate the socio-economic growth of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Hashoo Group in collaboration with the Government of AJK has announced a new partnership to advance education, hospitality, tourism and community development. . The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), symbolizing a shared commitment to AJK’s prosperity, was formalized at a ceremony at Kashmir House in Islamabad earlier this week, attended by dignitaries from the AJK government and Hashoo Group senior management.
This Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Mr. Haseeb A. Gardezi, Chief Operating Officer, Hospitality & Education Division, Hashoo Group, and Mr. Dawood Muhammad, Principal Secretary, AJK.
The collaboration aims to improve AJK’s tourism and hospitality sectors through the educational and economic initiatives of the Hashoo School of Hospitality Management and the Hashoo Foundation, which offer specialized training to strengthen the local workforce and stimulate economic development. The multi-stakeholder partnership includes several key aspects to support AJK’s development in various sectors and promote sustainable growth. It will focus on areas such as education and economic upliftment of marginalized communities and women, in line with the UN Sustainable Development Goals to improve the overall well-being of the population.
To enhance AJK’s tourism appeal, the partnership will also focus on upgrading infrastructure and services with an emphasis on the integration of Hashoo Group’s prestigious brands Pearl-Continental Hotels and Resorts, PC Legacy and Hotel One.
Hashoo Group Vice Chairman and CEO, Mr. Murtaza Hashwani highlighted the significance of the partnership: “This partnership embodies our commitment to empowering AJK’s potential and enriching the lives of its people through sustainable development initiatives. We aim to make significant advances in education and tourism.” and community empowerment projects, especially for women. We are excited to work with the AJK government and look forward to a successful journey.”
The Prime Minister of AJK, Mr. Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq shared his enthusiasm: “We are grateful for Hashoo Group’s expertise and enthusiasm in uplifting our communities through education, development initiatives and job opportunities. There is enormous potential in our diverse communities and we hope to to work closely with various stakeholders to realize this potential very soon.”
Celebrated for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscape, AJK offers unique potential for growth and development. Known for its mountain ranges, rivers and plains, this self-governing territory attracts tourists seeking natural beauty and warm hospitality.
Hashoo Group is a Pakistani premium conglomerate with a diversified business portfolio spanning both national and international markets. The group owns and operates the Pearl-Continental Hotels & Resorts, PC Legacy, Hotel One & Pearl Residences brands in Pakistan and has business interests spanning information technology, education, investment, travel & tourism and real estate sectors. The Hashoo Group also complements its corporate initiatives through the Hashoo Foundation, its sustainability arm, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to social responsibility and sustainable development.
