Enhanced economic ties between Pak, Afghanistan can tackle terrorism threat: Gilani

KABUL - The common threat of terrorism can be tackled through enhanced economic ties and increased trade relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has said.

“The high level contacts have proved very useful in developing a better understanding between the two countries,” the Daily Times quoted Gilani, as saying.

The interactions have also helped create the realisation that as neighbours, Pakistan and Afghanistan have to stand united to confront challenges, he added.

Gilani made these comments while talking to the speaker of the Afghan Lower House of Parliament, Mohammad Younas Qanooni, during a meeting at the Presidential Palace.

Qanooni said terrorism was a threat to their societies, but expressed confidence that both countries’ leaders would overcome it.

Gilani stated that he had proposed to Afghan President Hamid Karzai the establishment of special trans-border economic zones, and to facilitate joint ventures and partnerships in the private sector.

He said Afghanistan and Pakistan had vast human and natural resources, entrepreneurial talent and technological skills.

“We must optimally build and utilise our mutual economic complementarities. We should establish closer links between our respective chambers of commerce. A vibrant and dynamic Afghanistan-Pakistan CEO’s forum would make a huge difference,” said Gilani.

“The time has now come to shape our own destiny by joining hands and marching together towards a prosperous future for our peoples,” he added. (ANI)