Pak optimistic about boosting trade with India

Washington, Apr 19(ANI): Pakistan Finance Minister Abdul Hafeez Shaikh has expressed optimism regarding trade with India and added that he saw popular support for reviving ties with the neighbouring country and benefiting from its "dynamic" economy.

"There was a time when I used to evaluate Pakistan and I thought the best way for it to really develop is to relocate. I used to think that the best place for us to take Pakistan would be somewhere between Italy and Switzerland," The News quoted Shaikh, as saying.

"Now I've changed my mind because the parts that I thought we should be located in (Europe) aren't doing that great in terms of growth and where we are is the most dynamic part of the world," he added.

But Shaikh said that the new trade initiative enjoyed firm support of both business and political leaders.

"It reflects considerable thinking and it shows the economic merit that's there. So I personally feel quite optimistic that this is an area where the payoffs are there," he added.

The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation has repeatedly vowed to boost economic ties, but such promises have made little headway due to constant friction between India and Pakistan. (ANI)