ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar on Thursday said that the problems of poverty, illiteracy, growth and other issues in South Asia can only be overcome by improving relations between neighboring countries.     

Speaking at the concluding session of 5th South Asia Economic Summit in Islamabad, she said solutions come with establishing contacts and dialogue with key actors in the region.

She said that Pakistan has been able to move forward in changing the mind-set and policy about various issues.

Moreover, she added that Pakistan's core interest is to promote peace and security for the common citizens of Pakistan.

Hina Rabbani Khar said that SAARC countries have now realised that development relies on connectivity and deeper connection with each other.