THE prime minister has returned from a 10-day trip after attending the UN General Assembly, where he made a good speech, elaborating Pakistan’s viewpoint.

It, however, has brought dismay to a lot of his supporters, who think that all this could have been achieved within three days and without a delegation of more than 70 members at state expense.

The people of Pakistan have a right to know what was the specific role of each member of this large delegation funded by the taxpayer.

The success or failure of these frequent trips made by those holding public office can be gauged from our diplomatic isolation and almost negligible direct foreign investment, except the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

This country can ill-afford elected political leaders whose lifestyle replicates royalty, are billionaires with vast business interests spread all over the globe, from Dubai to Jeddah to the United Kingdom and the Far East and yet would like this poor nation to fund their frequent trips.

Later this month, the prime minister will go on an official visit at the invitation of the US president. Hopefully, he will not carry free loaders but only officials who have a role to perform.

Aneela Chandio

Sukkur

Published in Dawn, October 8th , 2015

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