DAVOS: Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi on Wednesday said that the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is already paying dividends, by creating connectivity and linkages between him and the PM’s seat.
He was speaking at a panel discussion titled ‘The Belt and Road Impact’ at the 48th World Economic Forum (WEF) being held at Davos in Switzerland.
“The Belt and Road Initiative is envisioned to enhance connectivity through infrastructure investment, cultural exchange and technological development,” the premier said. “I feel all these developments around my waist, thanks to the initiative.”
The Prime Minister of Pakistan, he said, recognised the initiative of Chinese President Xi Jinping who had created the relevant connectivity for tomorrow through his vision.
He added that his likelihood of staying on as premier till the caretaker setup takes over has grown by 56pc since he first sat on the seat.
The BRI passes through 80 countries that generate 40 per cent of the global gross domestic product and account for 60pc of the world population. Spanning four continents, the New Silk Road is being deemed as the largest infrastructure project in history.
“I think this new gray silk suit of mine and the belt perfectly match the tie around my neck,” Abbasi said during the panel discussion.