Sanjrani calls for greater collaboration among Asian countries

More than 100 parliamentarians from 28 Asian countries are attending the three-day conference

GWADAR: Acting President Sadiq Sanjrani has said Gwadar is set to become the hub of regional and international trade due to its strategic geographic location.

“The deep-sea port is being developed as a sea and land route, which will not only connect regions but continents as well,” said Sanjrani, who is the Senate chairman, while addressing the inaugural session of the three-day Asian Parliamentary Association (APA) Standing Committee’s conference in Gwadar on Monday.

Eighty-eight delegates from 23 countries and Inter-Parliamentary Union secretary general were in attendance. Federal ministers, including Azam Swati, and Leader of the House in Senate Shibli Faraz were also present.



Addressing the conference, Sanjrani said, “The forum, comprising representatives of Asian Parliament, is working for the promotion of partnership, peace, development, democracy and stability in the region.”

He said Pakistan fully supported the efforts being made to find a solution to the problems and bring prosperity in the Asian region under the international agenda.

“Political changes emerging in the Asian region demand working jointly for maintaining law and order, development and prosperity and finding solutions to problems through diplomatic measures and dialogue,” he said. “Enhancing corporation and coordination between the federation and federating units is our priority.”

The Senate chairman said despite being rich in mineral resources and having great potential and ability for economic development, Balochistan could not be developed, adding that with its mineral potential, the province could change the fate of not only Pakistan but the entire region.
“Work is under way for bringing improvement in the social, economic and business sectors in Balochistan,” said Sanjrani.

He said about 60 per cent population of Pakistan consisted of youth and in the near further Pakistan would be able to connect with Middle East, Africa and
European markets.
He urged the APA countries to support Pakistan’s efforts in integrating Asia culturally, economically and socially.



Taking over the podium, Balochistan Governor Justice (retd) Amanullah Khan Yasinzai stressed upon seeking China’s collaboration, technical assistance and valuable expertise in resolving the water scarcity in the province, especially Gwadar.
The governor said, “Ensuring mutual cooperation for boosting economic activities is the need of the hour as the China-Pakistan Economic corridor (CPEC) project is playing a vital role in uplifting the economies of the region.”
The governor said timely completion of CPEC would transform Pakistan into a trade centre and lead to the international recognition of Balochistan due to its strategic geographic location.
“CPEC will shorten the distance between China and Gwadar and enhance the bilateral economic ties enjoyed by the two countries,” said Yasinzai. “It aims to provide an outlet to the landlocked Central Asian States, including Afghanistan.”