As Pakistan takes measures to eradicate militancy from its territories as a part of its efforts against terrorism, a prerequisite for economic development, Egypt assures its assistance to strengthen the economy of the country said Saiid Hindam, Egyptian Ambassador to Pakistan.
On the National Day of Egypt, a large number of diplomats and officials gathered at a hotel here for an Iftar-dinner to celebrate the day.
Speaking to The Express Tribune, Hindam said that while Pakistan was operating with a clear objective to stabilise the security situation and provide a safe environment for its citizens, it was also dedicated to meet with other development challenges such as alleviating poverty.
Hindam said his Pakistani experience was immensely enriching as he praised the dynamic politics and free media, adding that developments over the past three years, such as the first-ever democratic transition from one government to the other, has had a positive impact.
“We have seen a change in the political poles of power of the country and we can sense the evolution of political systems,” he said.
The ambassador said there was great potential between the two countries. Keeping in view that Egypt is trying to achieve stability after elections as Pakistan combats its security challenges, the volume of trade has still increased from $250 million to $300 million.
Hindam said that the mission has been surveying all the potential alternatives in the energy sectors, mining, oil and gas and others. “We have been preparing files for potential investors on upcoming privatisations and other opportunities in Pakistan,” he said. Egypt has also increases its efforts in field of education and culture and arts and tourism.
“Recent political changes in Egypt have brought more stability and security to the country and we are attempting to schedule the joint ministerial commission between Pakistan and Egypt in order to give a new momentum to our relations at all levels,” he said.
On Gaza, the ambassador said Egypt has taken an initiative to address humanitarian needs as well as bring the warring parties to the table to meet the immediate demands of those in Gaza. “These efforts are for the sake of innocent people in Gaza,” he said.
Published in The Express Tribune, July 25th, 2014.
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It's terrible that Egypt has not opened its rafah border to help the Gaza people in the last few weeks.