Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan Ishaq Dar, who deserves credit for steering national economy successfully during most challenging times in the past, has expressed confidence that country is headed for a better future because of merit-based policies of the incumbent government. Addressing a news conference in London, he spoke about Pak-UK relations as well as political and security situation and described his interaction with members of the British government and Pakistani diaspora as ‘constructive and useful’. The United Kingdom (UK) has special relevance for Pakistan because of strong economic linkages, investment and presence of a sizable community of Overseas Pakistanis there. It is, therefore, satisfying to hear from Deputy PM that ‘slowness’ in bilateral relations is being reversed and attempts made to forge a strategic partnership.
Mr. Dar also took up the issue of resumption of PIA flights to the UK and according to him it would be resolved soon as the country has revised laws to conform them to the civil aviation requirements of the UK. He also presented in right perspective the issue of a surge in terrorism in Pakistan linking it to flawed policies of previous government, which released hardcore criminals, who are now based in neighbouring Afghanistan and indulging in anti-Pakistan activities.
As government and military are working harmoniously to counter threat of terrorism, there are reasons to believe that foreign-inspired and funded conspiracies would be foiled with full force and the country would succeed in realising its goals in the realm of economy and development.