ISLAMABAD, Sept 19: Algerian Minister for Small and Medium Enterprise and Handicrafts Mustapha Benbada has stressed on the need for strengthening Pakistan-Algeria relations on solid economic footings.

He shared this remark at a meeting with National Assembly Speaker Chaudhry Amir Hussain on Monday.

Mr Hussain said Pakistan attached great value to its relations with Algeria and there was more capacity for exploring bilateral and economic cooperation between the two nations.

He informed the Algerian minister about the favourable and lucrative business environment that had now been created to attract foreign investments.

The National Assembly speaker shared several of the initiatives taken by President Gen Pervez Musharraf for smooth functioning of democratic institutions in Pakistan, people’s empowerment at grass-root levels and empowerment of women by giving them representation in the parliament and safeguarding their rights.

The speaker also highlighted Pakistan’s contribution in global war against terror, which, he claimed, had been recognized by the world. Pakistan believed in resolution of all regional and international disputes through dialogue, he stressed. He also referred to initiatives taken by Pakistan to start dialogue with India and settle Kashmir dispute.