Punjab Minister for Finance and Planning & Development, Tanvir Ashraf Kaira, has said that Pakistan is passing through a very critical era because the country is facing huge losses due to worst ever flood in Pakistan's history and war against terrorism, going on simultaneously. "Overall loss of our economy is estimated around 43 billion dollars," he said in a statement issued here on Saturday.
The Minister said that all political forces should work together to overcome the crisis and challenges being faced by the country because "these are our national issues" and political stability is must for resolving these crisis with national consultation.
He said that it is the prime responsibility of the political forces that they should take decisions in the best interests of the country because at this time the country can not face any confrontation and political unstability. He said that all political forces should resolve their issues with consultation and show unity against war on terrorism and flood issues "because flood affectees need our help and aid".
He said that Watan Cards are being issued to flood affectees on priority basis, and directions have been passed to issue the watan cards within 48 hours of the entry of affected family and they can get amount of Rs 20,000 within 24 hours. He said that it is the best time to show solidarity with the people, and US, Europe should give easy access to their markets and these countries should sign trade agreements with Pakistan "because we want trade as well as aid". The Minister of Finance said that the government would soon overcome the crisis faced by the country with the support of people of the country.