Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz has said that Pakistan wants to improve its relations with India and dialogue process to move ahead in tandem with progress on Kashmir issue. He stressed that the Kashmir dispute should be settled in line with the aspirations of Kashmiri people, saying: "We can make progress on the issue if both sides show leadership, sincerity, courage and flexibility."
In an interview with a private television channel, he said: "We are not interested in armed race with India, and we have our philosophy on defence to have minimum credible deterrence."
Talking about Pakistan-China relations, Shaukat Aziz said Pakistan enjoys deep strategic relations with China and many Chinese companies are working in Pakistan.
Referring to Balochistan, he said that no military operation is going on in Balochistan, and the army is there only to secure and protect the vital national installations.
He said the government is adopting measures to solve the problems of Balochistan, where development projects worth Rs 130 billion are under way.
Referring to the country's economic situation, he said 2005 will be the best year for Pakistan in terms of foreign investment.
The prime minister said the government is very conscious of transferring the benefits of the economic gains to the people and investing in infrastructure, human capital health, and education sectors.
He said a strong and stable Pakistan is the goal of his government for which it is in contact with the Opposition parties, adding a strong opposition and independent Press are necessary for the guidance of the government.
To a query, the prime minister said the steps taken by the government against terrorism are yielding positive results.
He praised the leadership qualities of President General Pervez Musharraf, saying that he is a man with intellect, very supportive and encourages to take decisions.
Shaukat Aziz said that the President is a source of strength for every Pakistani.
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