Efforts on to normalize Indo-Pak ties: President
President Zardari said this while opening the 8th summit of the D-8 countries in Islamabad.
President Asif Ali Zardari has called upon D-8 countries to work for development solutions for their one billion people with focus on encouraging the free flow of goods‚ free flow of peoples and free flow of finances.
He was opening the 8th summit of the D-8 countries in Islamabad today after assuming chairmanship of the organization from Nigerian President.
The President said presence of the heads of state and government of all D-8 countries today reflects our collective determination to use this platform for finding solutions.
President Zardari put forward several proposals for fostering economic cooperation among member countries.
He emphasized the need for Trade and Development Banks; encouraging private sector‚ facilitating contacts between chambers of commerce and investment houses of the member countries; simplification of visa and customs procedures and barter trade.
He said most of D-8 countries have already ratified the PTA and there is need to operationalize it.
The President said D-8 countries represent a huge untapped reservoir that can serve as a catalyst for peace and prosperity around the world.
He said Pakistan is making unprecedented efforts to normalize relations with India and supports Afghanistan s own roadmap for peace and reconciliation.
The President said one of the most serious threats facing Pakistan is international terrorism.
He said we will fight for the spirit of our great religion that our Holy Prophet (Peace be upon him) gave to use.
The President said we are facing daunting challenges today. People of Kashmir continue to suffer unjust occupation and for decades they have been awaiting the promised self-determination.
He said people of Palestine continue to suffer the Israeli aggression. He said Pakistan condemns the recent attacks in Gaza which have led to the loss of innocent lives.
The President emphasized that we must address these issues. Rather than blaming others‚ we need to take charge of our destinies.
He said we must grow our economies‚ and provide our people with jobs and security.
He said D-8 has the potential to advance this agenda. The initiatives being declared at the summit will make a difference.
President Zardari expressed the confidence that the D-8 Charter‚ being signed today‚ will cement our joint undertakings.
The D-8 Global Vision will be a giant step forward towards achieving our long term objectives.
He also hoped that Islamabad Declaration will build upon the roadmap.
President Zardari urged the summit to endorse once again the core values of D-8 which include peace‚ dialogue and cooperation; justice‚ equality and moderation; democracy‚ rule of law and harmony; and peaceful co-existence and inclusion.
He said the D-8 agenda is diverse and is growing but it is crucial for our collective economic success and a shared future.
He pointed out that D-8 Business Forum‚ meetings of heads of central banks‚ trade promotion organizations and trade exhibitions are very important initiatives. These will help in economic growth.
