My heartiest congratulations to Pakistan International Airlines, the national flag carrier, on completing fifty years of excellent service to the Aviation industry.
PIA has made a significant contribution to the country's development and the economic upswing that has been evidenced in the last couple of years. The recent addition of several Boeing 777s to PIA's fleet will enable it to expand its world-wide operations. Pakistan's economy is moving forward.
A broad-based economic recovery has gathered momentum and the country is fast emerging as a hub of regional economic activity. Given the natural geo-political advantages that we enjoy in the region, the PIA has fully demonstrated its ability to exploit Pakistan's strategic location and serve as a bridge between the Gulf States and Central Asia.
I am pleased to note that through the hard work and dedication of its employees, the PIA has not only come out from its financial difficulties but is adding new aircraft and moving on a path of strong recovery. I congratulate them on their excellent team efforts and wish them success in their future endeavours.