Mr. Ahsan
Iqbal, Minister for Interior, Planning, Development & Reform highlighted
the economic gains and the security successes of Pakistan achieved in the last
four years. He was addressing a gathering at the Embassy Forum, organized by
the Pakistan Embassy, Washington DC, says a press release received here today
from Washington DC.
In his remarks, the Minister shared
the remarkable progress made by Pakistan in the macroeconomic sector through
prudent fiscal policies which have resulted in economic growth rate of over 5.3
percent per annum. Major economic projects were under way, such as the China
Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) that would generate business opportunities
for foreign investors in coming years.
The security situation has improved
considerably after successful military operations in the tribal areas as well
as other parts of the country. Through the valiant efforts of Pakistan's
security forces and the determination of the entire nation, the country had
reversed the tide of terrorism which had gripped it five years ago.
He also shared the various measures
taken by the government including energy projects that will add 10,000 MW to
the national energy supply. He was hopeful that power shortages could be fully
overcome in the near future. By redressing the energy shortfall, the Government
was keen to boost economic productivity.
The Minister also shared initiatives
taken by the government to enhance education, empower women, improve healthcare
and reduce poverty in Pakistan. He also sought support for the US-Pakistan Knowledge
Corridor.
On Pak-US relations, the Minister
expressed the hope that both countries would continue to work together in
future as they had been strategic partners over the last seven decades.
Ambassador Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry
thanked the Minister for sharing his views on the occasion and helping to
promote Pakistan's positive image in the US.
The Forum was well attended with
participants from US State Department, academia and members of the Pakistani
American diaspora.
