Pakistan is in the midst of an economic upturn owing to its wide ranging structural reforms, prudent macro-economic policies, fiscal discipline and consistency and continuity in policies have transformed Pakistan into a stable and resurgent economy.
Talking to Young Global Leaders' delegation who called on him at the Prime Minister's House he said the country has a sense of direction, political stability, an active parliament and vociferous press. "We want peace with all neighbours, which is critical for sustainable peace in the region," the Prime Minister said.
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz said government's policies of liberalisation, de-regulation and privatisation coupled with transparency have increased investors confidence and investments were highest in the history of Pakistan. He said last year the real GDP grew by 8.4 percent and this was the third year in a row when Pakistan achieved strong GDP growth.
The growth was broad based and sub sectors recorded strong growth particularly in large-scale manufacturing, agriculture and the services sector. He said Pakistan emerged as a second fastest growing economy of Asia after China after 2004-05. The Prime Minister said the government has been pushing the reforms agenda relentlessly with passion.
Referring to expansion in the telecom sector, the Prime Minister said Pakistan is the second highest in Asia. Pakistan has 19 million cellular phone customers. Tele density is 17 percent and the coverage is increasing a million a month.
The Prime Minister briefed the visiting ministers on the ongoing reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts in the earthquake affected areas.
He said entire work is being done by the Civil Administration, Army and elected representatives in close co-ordination. NGOs have also been contributing in government's relief, reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts.
He said the government is focusing on evolving transparent methods for funds collection and utilisation. Government has laid down a procedure for double audits and constituted committees for oversight.
The Prime Minister also gave the delegation an overview of Pakistan's stand on regional and international issues including composite dialogue with India, Jammu and Kashmir dispute, situation in Afghanistan, Iran and Iraq and counter terrorism.
Shaukat Aziz said Pakistan wants peace with all countries and sustained peace in South Asia will be possible with the resolution of the Kashmir dispute in line with the wishes of the Kashmiri people. India, Pakistan and Kashmiris need to work together to move towards a resolution. The opening of five points at the line of control and more interaction between Kashmiris on both sides of the LoC will create a conducive atmosphere and help the overall peace process.
The delegation appreciated the Pakistan government for undertaking rescue, relief and rehabilitation programmes on a fast pace. They said they are hopeful that Pakistan will be able to turn this adversity into opportunity.