Pakistan vociferously raising issues of Islamophobia, Kashmir & Palestine at global forums: Ishaq Dar

LONDON, Sep 07 (SABAH): Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar has said the government will leave no stone unturned for the facilitation of Pakistani diaspora abroad.

Addressing a news conference in London on Saturday, Ishaq Dar said he held very productive meetings with the leadership of the United Kingdom and they are eager to work with Pakistan. He said the issue of restoration of PIA’s flights was also raised during these interactions.

He said the government will continue to engage with the international community till the restoration of PIA’s flights global destinations. He said restoration of PIA’s flights is a big issue for the Pakistani diaspora.

The Deputy Prime Minister further said the government is going to privatize the national flag carrier to improve its performance. He said bids for the outsourcing of Islamabad International Airport have also been sought.

Commending the role of Pakistani diaspora in UK’s politics, Ishaq Dar said overseas Pakistanis should also be given representation in the parliament of Pakistan and it is on our agenda. But, it needs constitutional amendment, which cannot be done without a two-third majority. He said all the political parties will have to evolve a common strategy in this regard.

Ishaq Dar said the government under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is fully focused on the economy, peace, security, and energy situation in the country.

He said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif personally holds dozens of meetings to find a way out to address all the challenges confronting Pakistan.

The Deputy Prime Minister said structural reforms are vital to put the country on the path of development and progress. He said the government is committed to its reforms’ agenda and there should be no politics in this respect.

Ishaq Dar further said Pakistan is vociferously raising issues of Islamophobia, Kashmir, and Palestine at global forums.

He urged the international community to play its due role in getting decisions of the world bodies, especially the United Nations, implemented on such issues.

Meanwhile at a community event held in London to mark the Defence Day, Ishaq Dar lauded the martyrs who sacrificed their lives defending the motherland. He also highlighted the vital role played by Pakistani diaspora in the UK, in promoting Pakistan-UK ties.

Ishaq Dar said Pakistan attaches importance to its longstanding partnership with the UK. He was appreciative of the contributions of Pakistani diaspora in strengthening Pakistan-UK relations. The Deputy Prime Minister said steps are being taken for the revival of direct flights to the UK which will greatly benefit the Pakistani diaspora. Referring to the challenges on security and economic fronts, the Deputy Prime Minister called for collective efforts to steer the country out of them.