Pakistan, GCC agreement to boost Cooperation
Pakistan Times Business & Commerce Desk

ISLAMABAD: The Secretary General of GCC Abdur Rahman Al-Attiya has said the framework agreement on economic cooperation between the Gulf Cooperation Council and Pakistan will forge greater economic and trade relations between the two sides.

He was addressing a joint news conference with the Ambassador-at-Large Khurshid Mehmood Kasuri Friday morning. They expressed the confidence that the agreement will not only help expand bilateral economic relations between Pakistan and the Gulf States but will also lead to creating free trade area to boost trade and commercial relations.

Of Cordial Ties

Mr Abdur Rahman said, the Gulf Council countries enjoy very cordial relations with Pakistan in all fields but our trade volume does not reflect the depth of our relations, which needs to be enhanced.

He said, GCC countries fully support Pakistan’s efforts for the restructuring of OIC, reformation of UNO and combating terrorism. It also appreciates Pakistan’s policy regarding Iraq. GCC also supports peace process between Pakistan and India to normalise the situation in the region.

Fruitful Talks

Abdur Rahman described his talks with the Pakistani leaders very fruitful and encouraging and hoped that friendly ties will be further strengthened as a result of his current visit. To a question, he said the negotiations on free trade area with Pakistan will be launched in near future as soon as Pakistan constitutes its delegation for the purpose.

To a question, Rahman said GCC reaffirms its support for the unity and integrity of Iraq and it will extend all possible support to the Iraqi people on humanitarian grounds.

Kasuri Reax

Khurshid Mehmood Kasuri said there are historical and friendly relations between Pakistan and the GCC countries and both sides have a similar positions on most of the international issues but there is need to enhance mutual economic cooperation so that the existing relations could be further strengthened.

To a question, he said Pakistan fully supports Prince Abdullah’s plan to normalise the situation in the Middle East and ensure peace and security in the area. He said the international community will have to ensure justice by making efforts for long-lasting peace and peace cannot prevail without justice.

Kasuri said Pakistan is gateway to Central Asia and Afghanistan where major reconstruction activities are taking place.He said reconstruction activities in Iraq will also be started in near future. Keeping in view the importance of these areas, GCC and Pakistan should use full potential to enhance economic ties and take benefit of the future activities.

To another question regarding Pakistan’s position in the war on terrorism, he said Pakistan has alone contributed more than any country in the war on terrorism and its efforts have been appreciated by the United States, Islamic countries, European Union and the international community.●