Xi Jinping's visit: PM Nawaz blames Imran's 'immature politics' for delay

Premier says Pakistan will continue to progress despite sit-ins in the federal capital

ISLAMABAD: Censuring Imran Khan for staging anti-government protests in Islamabad, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping was postponed because of the 'immature' politics of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief. 

The premier made these comments after addressing participants of "Invest Pakistan" - an international investment conference held in Islamabad.

Speaking to the media, PM Nawaz said Pakistan will continue to progress despite these sit-ins in the federal capital.

'Invest in Pakistan'

In his speech, the prime minister said he has mandated the board of investment (BoI) to facilitate investors in planning and implementing their ventures.

Nawaz added the booming stock markets of Pakistan were vindicating progressive economic initiatives taken by the government.

"We plan to privatise power and its distribution network along with rationalisation of tariff to make investment in the power sector very attractive." Nawaz said.

"Numerous projects are in the pipeline. The production of these projects will soon outstrip demand," Nawaz emphasised.

Further, Nawaz said the government had planned the installation of numerous power generation units to boost energy production.

Nawaz also clarified that the projected GDP growth rate of the country ranged between four and six percent, considerably higher than the growth recorded during previous governments, where it consistently failed to cross the three percent barrier.

The premier welcomed international investors to invest in Pakistan and pointed out the various investment opportunities available in the country.

The story was transcribed by Mehak Ameer.