Minister for Foreign Affairs Khurshid Mehmud Kasuri on Wednesday called for adoption of modern techniques for cutting and polishing of the gems found in Pakistan to help country earn foreign exchange.
Inaugurating a four-day gems exhibition organised by Pakistan International Human Rights Organisation (PIHRO), Foreign Minister said if the precious stones found in Northern Areas are properly cut and finished the exports will surge significantly.
He said India has specially encouraged gems industry and increased its exports by 10 percent.
He urged up-gradation and improvement of cutting and polishing techniques of gems so as to optimally utilise this outstanding sector.
He suggested setting up institutions for gemmology to fully exploit this natural resource.
Talking to APP, chairman PIHRO and Central Vice President Pakistan Muslim League, Mohammad Akram Zaki said Pakistan has a big mineral wealth in the form of valuable stones but unfortunately the industry has not paid much attention to develop and organise on modern techniques.
He said currently Sri Lanka, Thailand and India are earning big amount of money from the industry. He maintained gems industry should be encouraged on government level as the industry has a large potential of creating jobs.
Zaki said the industry expansion will also promote culture of the country and helps in creating favourable image of Pakistani goods abroad.
He urged to dig out and explore the precious mineral wealth laying under the fertile land of the country.
Rahmat Khan, National Coach, Pakistan Squash Foundation while visiting the gems stalls said cause of the exhibitions noble to give recognition to the workers who are involved in this industry.
Rahmat, who has recently took the charge of Pakistan Human Rights international Co-ordinator asked people that such exhibitions are helpful to boost ignored sector on national and international level.
He urged people to do their work with dignity and assist the country through serving dedicatedly in their concerned fields.
Exhibition will continue till June 6, Sunday in which more than 25 stalls are being set up displaying large number of fine quality stones.