PM says Pak actively pursuing regional integration, CPEC

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  • Tells WTO DG Pak gearing up trade laws for full integration in Global Supply Chain

Pakistan is actively pursuing regional integration and the $46 billion investment and infrastructure projects under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to boost trade across the region, World Trade Organization (WTO) Director General Roberto Azevedo was informed during his meeting with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif at the Prime Minister’s House on Monday.

Warmly welcoming the WTO DG, the premier said that the CPEC alone had the potential to immensely enhance trade amongst regional countries and improve lives of millions of people in the region.

PM Sharif, while highlighting the importance of trade, said that Pakistan was gearing up its trade-related laws to achieve full integration in the Global Supply Chain. “Pakistan is ready to enhance its partnership with the WTO and is open to international competitive trade ideas,” he added.

The premier told the foreign dignitary that the improved law and order situation under the present democratic government had resulted in economic stability in Pakistan. “Our government is also addressing the power shortage issue and we expect to completely resolve it by 2018, after the completion of certain power projects,” he added.

Sharif also noted with satisfaction that peace had been restored to the mega city of Karachi and terrorists were on the run due to the successful military operation. “These will help Pakistan attract foreign investments by building confidence of the investors and businessmen,” he said.

Roberto Azevedo thanked PM Sharif for the warm welcome, and said that Pakistan was an ideal destination for businesses and investments. He also complimented the premier on his vision on economy and his efforts to take up challenges of political stability, improving security, achieving energy self-sufficiency and infrastructure development.

The meeting was also attended by Federal Minister for Commerce Khurram Dastgir Khan and senior government officials.