DAVOS, Switzerland: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said that Pakistan was being now on the track of sustainable growth and was “ready to do business with the world”.
“Offering attractive investment policies, Pakistan is a destination that no global player can miss,” the prime minister said in his address to leading businessmen at a dinner hosted by Abraaj Group late Wednesday.
The prime minister said the strategically located Pakistan was now politically stable, with sixth largest population in the world, 80 million middle class and blessed with rich human and natural resources.
“I invite you to take benefit from the economic revival of Pakistan and enjoy the first mover’s advantage,” the prime minister told the audience comprising top business leaders gathered in Davos for the 47th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF).
Nawaz Sharif said his government was working to ensure rule of law in the country while making the democratic institutions stronger and more relevant in all aspects of governance.
He said coming to the World Economic Forum was a great opportunity to meet global thinkers, policy makers and business leaders who shape the future of the people.
He said without peace and stability, development remained an elusive dream and stressed the need for collaboration and cooperation to meet the challenges.
“Without inclusion and partnerships, we cannot make any headway. This is the approach I believe we need to take at global, regional and national levels in order to not only solve our problems but also to create an environment in which the world economy can rejuvenate and revive,” he said.
He recalled that since assuming office in 2013, his government effectively tackled the challenges of economy, severe energy shortages, inflationary pressures, exchange rate volatility and a precarious security environment.
“Today, our government has managed to stabilize the economy, despite unfavorable global economic conditions. We first set out to improve the macro-economic outlook and sustained our efforts in spite of strong challenges,” he said.
The prime minister said economic conditions in Pakistan were improving continuously and from a 3 percent GDP growth before 2013, it was projected to achieve 5.5 percent GDP growth during the current year.
He said in last three-and-a-half years, the government initiated much needed reforms that aimed at sustainable economic growth and development.
He mentioned that focused was laid on technology, energy, modern infrastructure and a thriving investment climate besides reduction in bank interest rates and exemptions.
Nawaz Sharif said the government also launched the most successful counter-terrorism operation anywhere in the world and dismantled entirely the network of terrorists in two years.
“Pakistan is an inclusive, tolerant and forward looking society. Pakistan is as safe as any other place in the world,” he said.
