Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz on Thursday said Pakistan is developing its social sectors, with special focus on education, literacy and vocational skills to its youth to leverage their full potential. The Prime Minister stated this during his one-on-one meeting with Prince Karim Aga Khan, who called on him here at the PM House this afternoon. The Prime Minister said that the government has initiated an ambitious countrywide programme to impart skills training to the youth to meet the growing requirements of skilled labour. He said there has been a phenomenal increase in the demand of skilled manpower as the size of economy has doubled during the last seven years. The Prime Minister said that peace, moderation and interfaith harmony are essential for the wholesome growth and development of the Muslim Ummah. The Prime Minister thanked the Aga Khan for various humanitarian educational and business enterprises which he and his entities have undertaken in Pakistan. He particularly appreciated the assistance provided by the Aga Khan Development Network for various social sector projects in Pakistan as well as the generous assistance for earthquake affectees. The Prime Minister also appreciated the role of Aga Khan University and Aga Khan Hospital in improving health-care and higher education in Pakistan as well as several other projects in many parts of the country. He also appreciated the contribution of Prince Karim Aga Khan towards the promotion of tourism in Pakistan particularly in the Northern Areas as this would create economic opportunities for the region. The Aga Khan congratulated the Prime Minister for Pakistan’s initiative to invest in education and health sectors. He said that economic achievements made by Pakistan are impressive and have paved the way for increased investment in the country. He said the Aga Khan network is working in Pakistan to improve education and health-care facilities in addition to providing micro-credit and other opportunities to the people to improve their standard of living. The two leaders also discussed the situation in the region, Pakistan’s relations with its neighbours and other issues of mutual interest.
Ismailimail 