By NNN-APP
Dhaka : Pakistan has achieved success in every sector and plays vital role in promoting regional and international arenas, says the Defence Adviser of Pakistan High Commission for Pakistan in Bangladesh.
Addressing an ‘Iftar Mahfil’ the Defence Adviser of Pakistan Brig. Khadim Hussain said that despite multi-pronged challenges Pakistan made laudable successes in all sectors that help sustained economic growth and promote regional and international peace.
He said, “Despite heavy odds and crisis- ridden changed global and regional environment in the wake of 9/11, Indian troops escalation on our borders for almost one year, global war on terrorism, US bombings in Afghanistan and situation in FATA and Balochistan, AQ Khan’s act of indiscretion, devastating earthquake of 2005, and the recent floods, the present regime under the most dynamic and visionary leadership of President Gen. Pervez Musharraf has been able not only to face challenges, but also has brought about unprecedented socio-economic and political developments.”
“These include: infrastructural developments like communication network, deep sea port at Gawadar, coastal highways, better dams and canals and small and medium industries, agriculture, trade and commerce, health and education,” the DA narrated.
He said, during the last 7-8 years, FDIs, stock exchange, foreign exchange reserves and remittances have been all times high. Pakistan has a vibrant economy with sustained GDP growth f over 7%, he added.
Pointing to Pakistan’s unique role in war against terror and uplift Afghanistan, Brig. Khadim said, “We made lofty sacrifices and contributions that no nation in the world had made so far. Stability in Afghanistan is directly linked to our economic benefits and national interest. We believe force alone cannot solve the problem and reconstruction and development in Afghanistan. “ He said, recently held Pak-Afghan Joint Peace Jirga was a positive step towards peace and prosperity. He also referred to Pakistan’s peace process with India.
Referring to Bangladesh-Pakistan cordial relation, Brig. Khadim said, “Our relations are deeply rooted in our shared Islamic values, common interests, history, culture, and family associations.”
“Our shared views and perceptions on various regional and international issues also stem from these strong linkages that exist between the two brotherly countries,” he said and added, both the countries “oppose hegemony, believe in sovereign equality of States and regional cooperation through SAARC. We are equally opposed to international terrorism, religious extremism and significantly cooperate and contribute in UN peacekeeping missions worldwide. “
He said, Pakistan highly values Bangladesh’s support for peaceful resolution of disputes threatening peace and security in South Asia.
Narrating the laudable sacrifices of Pakistan Armed Forces made on several occasions, particularly in September war of 1965 Brig. Khadim said, “We manifested indomitable courage, unswerving spirit and unflinching resolve in thwarting the nefarious designs of the enemy, much superior in size and equipment, in 1965.”
Brig. Khadim explained the successes of Pakistan in defence production to the gathering that also consisted of high military and civil officials of Bangladesh and said, Pakistan has been able to make major breakthroughs in manufacturing the latest and technologically advanced missiles, MBT, APCs, submarines, missile boats, mine hunters and JF-17s and other military hardwires.”
“There is a greater scope than ever before for Bangladesh and Pakistan to enhance our mutually beneficial, multi-faceted inter-dependence, especially in trade and defence. In this regard, role of the people in uniform on both sides figures out prominently.
Giving an account of Pak-Bangladesh ever growing brotherly relations he cited many instances including exchanges of visits of officials and policymakers in all levels between the two countries.
He said, our geo-strategic locations provide us additional opportunities that also increase our responsibilities. “Our present and future will remain bleak and we continue to be dominated by others if we do not strive to become economically, politically and technologically strong and self-reliant,” Brig. Khadim opined.