Islamabad (Agencies): Finance Minister Asad Umar on Friday said Pakistan is opening up to the world with improved security situation in the country.
Addressing the graduation ceremony of 27th Advanced Diplomatic Course organized by Foreign Service Academy for Foreign Diplomats in Islamabad, the finance minister said Pakistan is trying to improve trade and economic relations with different countries in order to exploit its full potential.
Referring to the geo strategic location of Pakistan, Asad Umar said Pakistan is the pivot of the Silk Road. He said we are in the process of implementing China Pakistan Economic Corridor project which has strengthened our economic relations with the time tested friend.
The finance minister pointed out that Pakistan and Turkey are also on the path of developing strategic economic framework. He added that a strategic relationship council has also been set up with Saudi Arabia to further deepen the relations with the Kingdom.
Asad said that “Pakistan by its history and incredible heritage is a multi-cultural society and we want to make this accessible to the rest of the world”, he said.
Referring to the recent staffoff with India, Asad Umar said things seemed to be on the mend. We, however, will continue to be guard till the elections are held in the neighboring India. He said Pakistan stays committed to improve relations with all the regional countries including India.
“Our hand of friendship is still extended to India but if India resorted to any misadventure, this hand will turn into a fist. We have the capacity and capability to defend the motherland”, he added.
On Afghanistan, Asad said Pakistan's efforts for the Afghan peace process are now widely being appreciated. He said Pakistan will continue to play its role to make the dialogue process successful.
