LONDON, Sept 2: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz has said that the government is striving sincerely to make the country a vibrant, progressive and moderate Islamic welfare state.

Addressing a gathering of elected councillors and mayors of Pakistani origin here, he said the country was on fast track of development, and economic conditions would be further improved. He urged the members of all political parties to join hands with the government for progress and prosperity of the country.

About the issue of terrorism and extremism Mr Aziz said several measures had been taken to combat the issue. However, he said it had become an international problem and Pakistan was also a victim of the menace.

He said Pakistanis living in United Kingdom and other countries had to play an active role in this regard and help the government fighting against the extremist elements.

The prime minister urged Pakistani expatriates to invest in Pakistan taking full advantage of the liberal and business-friendly policies of the government. He assured them to provide full protection to their investment in the country.

Replying to a question about Balochistan situation he said the government was making continued efforts to ensure development in the area.

He said the government had started a number of projects at a cost of Rs135 billion for Balochistan.

Mr Aziz said the liberal policies of the present government had attracted foreign investors including from United Kingdom to come to Pakistan.

Similarly, the economy has the capacity to absorb shock of increasing oil prices.

He said poverty in the country had been reduced from thirty-five per cent to the level of 25 per cent.

Highlighting the foreign policy, Mr Aziz said Pakistan wanted peaceful relations with all its neighbours.—PPI