QUETTA: Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday reiterated that Pakistan wanted peace to prevail in Afghanistan, as instability in the war-torn country would have effects on the region.
The premier’s comments came during his address at an event in Gwadar, where he said countries in the region had expressed interest in reaping the benefits offered by the Gwadar port.
In this scenario, he expressed concern over the law and situation in Afghanistan, which he said, was extremely important for the continuity of development.
“We all want peace and stability to prevail in Afghanistan […] I spoke to Iran’s president, and I told him that Afghanistan’s neighbouring countries should push for a political settlement in the [war-torn] nation.”
‘Pakistan on its way to becoming a great country’
Pakistan is on its way to becoming a great country, Prime Minister Imran Khan said, as he shared his vision of the country’s future.
The premier said that some areas in the country are developed, while several others, including Balochistan, have remained underdeveloped.
“I dream of Pakistan’s future — and I have grown up with Pakistan. This nation is headed towards becoming a great country,” he said, adding: “Gwadar is becoming a focal point for Pakistan, which will benefit the country, especially Balochistan.”
The premier said he had come to visit Gwadar for two reasons — inaugurate the Gwadar Free Zone Phase 2 and for the development of Balochistan.
The prime minister mentioned that Gwadar International Airport would encourage regional trade and boost economic activity.
The prime minister said works on energy and water supplies to the city were underway, and this would help Gwadar grow. “These projects were moving at a slow pace before […] but now they are developing at a better pace.”
The premier, shedding light on why the country should expedite China Pakistan Economic Corridor and remove hurdles in businesses related to it, said Chinese exporters were aiming to install such industries that would help Pakistan increase its exports.
