Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said on Wednesday that his visit to Greece has achieved objectives and has helped change perceptions about Pakistan with a mutual desire to expand ties in all areas.
"It is a turning point and will strengthen relations between the two countries," Prime Minister Aziz told the accompanying media team, while flying over the Mediterranean at the conclusion of his first leg of visit to Greece.
The Prime Minister who had a marathon series of 25 engagements in two days including meeting with the President and Prime Minister of Greece, minister, industrialists, entrepreneurs, leaders in shipping industry, scholars, members of civil society and media said "the visit did help change their (Greek) perceptions on Pakistan and now they have a more positive view about Pakistan."
The two countries agreed to institutionalise economic relations by setting up a joint business forum for greater interaction between the private sectors of the two countries, besides agreeing on joint ventures in shipping, increased co-operation in defence, security, trade and investments.
The Prime Minister's visit, the first by any Pakistani head of government in 59 years was aimed at creating a conducive environment, leading the two countries towards a more meaningful relationship and to explore avenues of co-operation in diverse fields.
"We have discussed having a more liberal visa policy for the businessmen, so that they may interact more with focus on increasing investment," he said. Regarding signing of agreements for increased co-operation between the chambers of commerce of the two countries he said both the government and the private sector has to do more follow up work in this regard. The Prime Minister said the Greek government and the private sector were equally keen on enhancing ties with Pakistan.
Prime Minister Aziz said the two countries also agreed to start negotiations for the agreement on protection and promotion of investment, which he added, would help bring the private sectors of the two countries further closer.
He said his discussions also focused on inter-faith, inter-civilisation and inter cultural harmony among people of all faiths.
He said the wife of Greek Prime Minister hosted a luncheon in honour of Begum Rukhsana Aziz and together they went to visit a charity set up for cancer treatment of children. Begum Aziz also met the lady who donated US dollars 50,000 for the relief and rehabilitation of victims of October 8 earthquake in Pakistan.
President of the Greek Ship Owners Association Captain Panayiotis hosted a dinner in honour of Prime Minister and Begum Rukhsana Aziz on Tuesday night.
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