Dubai Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has softened his stand towards US as he wants Islamabad and Washington to improve their relations.
“Pakistan should also improve relations with the US as soon as possible by removing all doubts and misunderstanding. We should understand each other to strengthen relations,” said Sharif while answering a question about strong relations between India and Pakistan.
Relations between the two countries touched the lowest in ten years recently after Pakistan closed Nato supplies, and has been demanding an apology from the US over the Nato attack on a Pakistani military post killing 27 soldiers. Sharif’s party had earlier taken strong stand against opening the Nato supplies.
He also believes that the arms race between Indian and Pakistan, which has picked up pace during the last six years should also stop, and both countries should instead spend money on social sectors to improve the plight of their people. He said peace should prevail between the two countries and the region.
Sharif, who is president of the Pakistan Muslim League (PML-N), was the chief guest at a seminar organised by Javed Malik, convener of Pakistan Overseas Business and Professional Forum. The function, which was held on Tuesday at the Atlantis Hotel on the world’s largest man made island, was attended by prominent Pakistani businessmen and professionals living in the UAE.
Criticism
During his speech, Sharif lambasted former president General (retd) Pervez Musharraf and held him responsible for multiple crises in the country. “Musharraf the dictator is the cause of many problems including the power crisis Pakistan is facing today,” he said. He also criticised President Asif Ali Zardari and held his government equally responsible for the energy crisis, corruption and price hike, and economic woes.
A number of businessmen were disappointed with Sharif’s speech as it contained a bit of rhetoric as he mostly talked about his achievements during his two stints as prime minister of Pakistan.
Sharif said that he is confident to win the next general elections with a clear majority. “We will restore the rightful glory of Pakistan and will make Pakistan peaceful and prosperous,” he added.
He said that the Forum has been formed to reach out to overseas Pakistanis as it will serve as a link between them and PML-N. The Forum will provide a platform to enable Pakistanis living abroad to contribute toward their country.
