Dastgir asserts regional trade importance

Says SAARC needs to be used as platform to promote development

LAHORE: Federal Minister for Commerce Khurram Dastgir Khan has said that Pakistan is committed to enhance its relations with regional countries to promote peace, trade and development, cautioning, however, that these relations should be based on mutual respect.

Khan said that the real test of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc) lies in its commitment to end poverty in the region. “If any country deviates from this motto and attempts to create a non-cooperating environment, it will not only be detrimental to economic relations but would affect foreign policy as well,” Khan said. Khan said this at a joint inaugural ceremony of 12th Saarc trade fair and 9th Wexnet exhibition on Friday.

“By organising this event after three years, Pakistan has shown its commitment and vision for regional development and it is up to the other seven members to adopt our vision,” he said.

He said that the whole world is making new trade blocs for their regions’ overall growth while Saarc remains the least integrated region in the world.

“It is a well-known fact that without peace and trade, this region will not grow to its potential,” Khan said.

He acknowledged that there are challenges in enhancing trade relations within Saarc countries. “But opportunities overweigh the challenges and we should focus on a better future,” said Khan. “The presence of Saarc secretary general in the trade fair is evidence that despite all challenges, this region is moving forward.

Meanwhile, Arjun B Thapa, secretary general of Saarc secretariat, said the region was lagging behind in regional trade with other blocs.

“We have been hoping for this trade fair for the last 3 years and finally we are here which is encouraging,” he added.

Except Afghanistan and the Maldives, member countries are participating in a three-day trade fair.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 5^th, 2015.

Like Business on Facebook, follow @TribuneBiz on Twitter to stay informed and join in the conversation.