Govt overcame challenges putting country on path of development, President Alvi tells parliament

(Karachi) President Arif Alvi has said that the present government overcame challenges during two years of its rule putting the country on path of development.

Highlighting the government's two-year performance during the joint session of the Parliament on Thursday, he said, "I congratulate the people of the country for fighting against terrorism."

He added that the government's another achievement is that it provided shelter to Afghan refugees. He said, "Other countries don't let even 10 migrants enter their borders but Pakistan had shown its open-heartedness."

Regarding coronavirus pandemic, he said that Pakistan managed to control COVID-19 outbreak due to effective strategies of the government. He pointed out, "Initially there was a lot of fear that the people will die in the streets."

Alvi highlighted that now the world is recognising the government's response to the pandemic. "Today, the world is giving our example. I don't remember the last time I heard something like that."

He said the government's Ehsaas programme was introduced to provide those most affected by the fall-out from the virus with cash stipends. "I congratulate the premier and the government for standing by their stance [on the country's Covid-19 response] despite criticism from the opposition."

Pointing towards economic progress, the president said that Pakistan's current account deficit had reduced despite the coronavirus pandemic wreaking havoc on the economy. "Our ratings by Moody's and Fitch have improved, showing us that they think the country's situation looks good."

It shows that the government's policies are working, and if the coronavirus had not emerged, it would have managed to take it to new heights, he said.

He said there will be no compromise on corruption and action will be taken against corrupt elements across the board.

Commenting on occupied Kashmir, the president said that it was only due to the premier's efforts that the matter was taken up by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) thrice during the past year. "This is your victory."

He also lauded the premier for his strong remarks on Israel, in which he stated that Pakistan would not recognise it as a state until Palestine is freed. "Such bold statements give strength to others."