Pakistan's foreign policy to align with progressive, economic imperatives: PM Kakar

• Foreign policy should aim for peace and global beneficial ties: PM.
• Says it should also prioritise socio-economic well-being of people.
• Foreign ministry organises Envoys’ Conference from January 4-6.
  

ISLAMABAD: Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar emphasised Thursday that the foreign policy should be guided by a vision of Pakistan as a progressive, economically ascendant state that prioritises the socio-economic well-being of its people.

The premier was speaking at the ongoing Envoys’ Conference being held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs from January 4-6, and being participated by Pakistan’s envoys from important capitals to deliberate on various facets of the country’s foreign policy.

Welcoming the prime minister, Interim Foreign Minister Jalil Abbas Jilani outlined the framework of discussions at the Envoys’ Conference and its importance as a deliberative forum on diplomatic challenges and opportunities for Pakistan in view of global and regional developments.

The top diplomat underscored the need for strengthening the anchoring role of the Foreign Office in foreign policy formulation and implementation, the state news agency reported.

PM Kakar, in his keynote address, shared his perspective about the pressing demands on the conduct of Pakistan’s foreign policy to align it with present-day imperatives.

It should also continue to aim for peace and mutually beneficial relations across the globe, he added. “Pakistan would always champion the Jammu and Kashmir cause and its resolution as per the United Nations Security Council resolutions and the wishes of the Kashmiri people.”

Pakistan would continue to stand for international law and purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, mainstreaming economic diplomacy and supporting the Palestinian cause, the prime minister added.

He termed the conference timely and relevant against the backdrop of profound transformations taking place in the region and around the globe.

Premier Kakar reaffirmed his trust in Pakistan’s diplomacy and diplomats in their capability to fully deliver despite pressing odds and expressed the hope that the deliberations of the conference would lead to practical suggestions to navigate Pakistan’s foreign policy through present-day challenges.

The caretaker PM also extended his best wishes to the foreign ministry and Pakistani diplomats in safeguarding the country’s interests and advancing its global stature.