Nepal, Pakistan share common views: Hussain
By Yuba Nath Lamsal
A career diplomat, Syed Abrar Hussain took up his responsibility as the ambassador of Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Nepal only last month. Masters in English literature, Hussain, 50, joined civil service/foreign services in 1982. In an interview to The Rising Nepal, Hussain, who served in Pakistan Missions in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Czech Republic, Afghanistan, Lebanon and Brunei prior to being appointed as ambassador to Nepal, is of the view that Nepal and Pakistan share many similarities and have huge potentials to expand bilateral co-operation. Experts:What is your impression about Nepal?It has been about a month since I took up my assignment here. I have found Nepal the place to be: excellent climate, abundant scenic beauty, splendid cuisine and most importantly, simple, honest and proud people. Nepal has so much to offer that it seems impossible to discover this beautiful country in its entirety during my stint here. I also see many similarities between Pakistan and Nepal. Our peoples are lively, hardworking, intelligent and trustworthy. Together, we are proud heirs to Gandhara civilization. World’s highest peaks are concentrated only in Nepal and Pakistan. The commonalties make me feel that Nepal is my home away from home. Would you enlighten our readers on the Foreign Policy of Pakistan?Pakistan’s foreign policy is aimed at seeking friendship and cooperation with the international community with special emphasis on economic diplomacy. Pakistan is committed to a secure and stable world order based on freedom, justice and equity. We seek an end to poverty and support promotion of socio-economic development across the world. Strategically located at the cross-roads of three vital regions of the world—South Asia, Central Asia and West Asia, Pakistan is an anchor of regional peace and security. Regionally and internationally, Pakistan has a vital role to play.What is your view on Nepal-Pakistan relationship with special emphasis on the present state of bilateral relations between the two countries?Pakistan and Nepal enjoy cordial and cooperative relations. We greatly value this relationship which dates back to several decades. Our two countries established diplomatic relations in 1960. At the working level, bilateral consultations at the level of the Foreign Secretaries have been institutionalized. This provides a useful forum for exchange of views on bilateral relations, SAARC process and regional and global issues. At the political level, we share views on regional and international issues and there is no divergence or disagreement between the two countries. Given these excellent relations and the shared desire to expand mutually beneficial co-operation, several agreements have been signed between the two countries in various fields including trade, culture, agriculture, air services and avoidance of double taxation.On our part, we have been regularly providing assistance to Nepal in various sectors, such as health, infrastructure, education etc. We plan to further enhance this assistance in the coming years. In the field of human resource development, Nepal benefits from Pakistan’s experiences in expansion and development of primary and tertiary education. Under Pakistan Technical Assistance Programme, a number of Nepalese students are studying in various professional colleges in Pakistan. We also provide training to Nepalese citizens in other professional institutions, like banking, communication etc. This brief review of our bilateral relations shows that both Nepal and Pakistan enjoy what could be termed as exemplary relations. But, I must admit that our economic relations are not commensurate with the existing potential of the two countries. Establishment of Nepal-Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry in February 2007, however, reflects the commitment of our two sides for enhancement of bilateral economic relations. I also believe that the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and the private sector need to play a pro-active role in promoting exchange of trade and investments. I look forward to the visit of Nepalese business delegation to Karachi in October this year to attend Expo-Pakistan 2008.Last but not least, Pak-Nepal bilateral relations are based on the principles of sovereign equality and non-interference in each other’s affairs. These relations will always flourish in times to come.Both Nepal and Pakistan are blessed with abundant natural beauty, especially mountains. How do you think this can be exploited to the benefit of the two countries?Nature has blessed Pakistan and Nepal with landscape unique in the world. Like I said before, world’s highest peaks are concentrated in our two countries. Mountain tourism seasons in Nepal and Pakistan come one after the other. While mid March to early June is considered ideal for climbing expeditions in Nepal, mid May to end of August is supposed to be the best time for climbing in Pakistan. This virtually means that one can enjoy climbing in both the countries one after the other without having to wait for the next season. If properly planned and coordinated, our two countries can share mountain tourists. But this is not all. Together, we also offer religious, and adventure tourism. We just need to promote it to our mutual benefit.Then the icing on the cake is that we are just two-and-half hours away from each other. PIA has already doubled its flights between Karachi and Kathmandu to four flights a week. All this augurs well for tourism promotion in Pakistan and Nepal. In fact, I actually see mutual benefit for our two countries in this sector.What suggestions would you offer to enhance people to people contact between the two countries.I think people to people contact, in addition to the official interaction, is assuming enormous importance in interstate relations. It is a powerful means of bringing the countries together. I call it a non-conventional institutional mechanism. Nepal Pakistan Friendship and Cultural Association which was created back in 1970 by friends of Pakistan in Nepal, is an excellent example of people to people contact. It has evolved as a strong forum over three decades. It is a manifestation of excellent bilateral relations between Pakistan and Nepal and the sentiments of love and affection that the peoples of our two countries have for each other.Being established, managed and run by those Nepalese friends who are or have been associated with Pakistan in some capacity have special feelings for Pakistan, I think the association is already playing significant role not only in consolidating people to people contact but also enhancing mutual goodwill and respect. It has been sixty years since Pakistan was created. India became independent in the same year. In terms of level of development and economic growth, India is far ahead. Why has Pakistan lagged behind?Without drawing any comparison, I would state that the two countries have their own economic dynamics and development pace. As for Pakistan, our economic fundamentals are sound, growth rate is robust 6% plus despite inflationary pressures and spiraling oil prices, middle class—the driving force behind the economic development—is expanding apace, educated work force is on the ascend and all sectors of economy are showing reasonable performance despite external shocks. Pakistan’s level of development and economic progress is fairly good in the region.The conflict between India and Pakistan has been an obstacle for the overall peace in South Asia. What are the major issues that have affected the relationship between Pakistan and India and how do you think these issues can be resolved?We all have a fairly comprehensive knowledge about the issues between Pakistan and India, the most important being the Kashmir dispute. It is now perhaps one of the oldest disputes waiting to be resolved. To resolve this and other issues, the two countries have been engaged in a dialogue process, known as Composite Dialogue since January 2004. So far four rounds have been held. The last round was held in Islamabad on 21 May 2008 with Ministerial level review. It was preceded by the Foreign Secretary level meeting on 20 May 2008. The talks were held in a friendly and constructive atmosphere. Fifth Round of the Composite Dialogue will be held in New Delhi in July 2008.Eight segments of the Composite Dialogue were covered during the fourth round: (i) Peace and Security, including CBMs; (ii) Jammu and Kashmir; (iii) Siachen; (iv) Sir Creek; (v) Wullar Barrage; (vi) Terrorism and Drugs Trafficking; (vii) Economic and Commercial Cooperation; and (viii) Promotion of Friendly Exchanges.We hope that with the progress in the Composite Dialogue the overall atmosphere in South Asia will also improve.From Pakistan’s perspective, what are the most important issues in terms of regional development and economic growth and how Pakistan can address those issues?For us, security in and around our region is of utmost importance, without which no form of progress can become sustainable. Our countries have achieved impressive economic progress in the last several years. However, all this progress remains vulnerable due to security challenges confronting us. These challenges have both long and short term. These challenges, therefore, need to be confronted head on and the issues have to be resolved amicably. While attaining peace and security in the region remains our aim, a strong, democratic, progressive Islamic state of Pakistan is our vision for achieving this aim. We see Pakistan as a country in the region that provides peace, prosperity, and security to its people and its own progress radiates to its neighbors, creating positive impact in the region. Our aspirations are to accelerate our socio-economic development, build a knowledge based society and contribute to peace and development in the world consistent with the deeply held values of our faith and our vision for a modern progressive Islamic state. Pakistan is an important member of SAARC. How do you think SAARC should move ahead to achieve its goals? SAARC has entered its third decade. Over the years, we have succeeded in developing and elaborating a framework for regional cooperation. From small beginnings, limited to technical collaboration and cooperation, we now have concluded agreements and made decisions for substantive interaction, and chalked out programmes aimed at social uplift, poverty alleviation, enhanced people to people contacts, establishment of a free trade arrangement and environmental protection.We have travelled a long distance, but much remains to be accomplished. Our progress remains short of our aspirations. South Asia has yet to forge the quality and intensity of regional cooperation that we have witnessed in many other regions of the world, bringing about a revolutionary transformation in the lives of their people.How can Pakistan assist Nepal’s economic development?Relations between Pakistan and Nepal are marked by warmth and friendship. This warmth and friendship transcends all facets of our bilateral relations, including economic relations. In addition we have institutional mechanisms in place to facilitate the useful cooperation. Joint Economic Commission is one such institution. Within these institutional mechanisms, Pakistan will always help and support Nepal’s economic development. Despite being so close, the trade between Nepal and Pakistan is not encouraging. What should be done to promote trade between Nepal and Pakistan?Indeed economic and trade relations between Pakistan and Nepal are not commensurate with the actual potential and potential will of the two countries. Lack of direct road or sea link between the two countries is a major impediment in expanding bilateral trade.
A career diplomat, Syed Abrar Hussain took up his responsibility as the ambassador of Islamic Republic of Pakistan to Nepal only last month. Masters in English literature, Hussain, 50, joined civil service/foreign services in 1982. In an interview to The Rising Nepal, Hussain, who served in Pakistan Missions in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Czech Republic, Afghanistan, Lebanon and Brunei prior to being appointed as ambassador to Nepal, is of the view that Nepal and Pakistan share many similarities and have huge potentials to expand bilateral co-operation. Experts:What is your impression about Nepal?It has been about a month since I took up my assignment here. I have found Nepal the place to be: excellent climate, abundant scenic beauty, splendid cuisine and most importantly, simple, honest and proud people. Nepal has so much to offer that it seems impossible to discover this beautiful country in its entirety during my stint here. I also see many similarities between Pakistan and Nepal. Our peoples are lively, hardworking, intelligent and trustworthy. Together, we are proud heirs to Gandhara civilization. World’s highest peaks are concentrated only in Nepal and Pakistan. The commonalties make me feel that Nepal is my home away from home. Would you enlighten our readers on the Foreign Policy of Pakistan?Pakistan’s foreign policy is aimed at seeking friendship and cooperation with the international community with special emphasis on economic diplomacy. Pakistan is committed to a secure and stable world order based on freedom, justice and equity. We seek an end to poverty and support promotion of socio-economic development across the world. Strategically located at the cross-roads of three vital regions of the world—South Asia, Central Asia and West Asia, Pakistan is an anchor of regional peace and security. Regionally and internationally, Pakistan has a vital role to play.What is your view on Nepal-Pakistan relationship with special emphasis on the present state of bilateral relations between the two countries?Pakistan and Nepal enjoy cordial and cooperative relations. We greatly value this relationship which dates back to several decades. Our two countries established diplomatic relations in 1960. At the working level, bilateral consultations at the level of the Foreign Secretaries have been institutionalized. This provides a useful forum for exchange of views on bilateral relations, SAARC process and regional and global issues. At the political level, we share views on regional and international issues and there is no divergence or disagreement between the two countries. Given these excellent relations and the shared desire to expand mutually beneficial co-operation, several agreements have been signed between the two countries in various fields including trade, culture, agriculture, air services and avoidance of double taxation.On our part, we have been regularly providing assistance to Nepal in various sectors, such as health, infrastructure, education etc. We plan to further enhance this assistance in the coming years. In the field of human resource development, Nepal benefits from Pakistan’s experiences in expansion and development of primary and tertiary education. Under Pakistan Technical Assistance Programme, a number of Nepalese students are studying in various professional colleges in Pakistan. We also provide training to Nepalese citizens in other professional institutions, like banking, communication etc. This brief review of our bilateral relations shows that both Nepal and Pakistan enjoy what could be termed as exemplary relations. But, I must admit that our economic relations are not commensurate with the existing potential of the two countries. Establishment of Nepal-Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry in February 2007, however, reflects the commitment of our two sides for enhancement of bilateral economic relations. I also believe that the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Federation of Nepalese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) and the private sector need to play a pro-active role in promoting exchange of trade and investments. I look forward to the visit of Nepalese business delegation to Karachi in October this year to attend Expo-Pakistan 2008.Last but not least, Pak-Nepal bilateral relations are based on the principles of sovereign equality and non-interference in each other’s affairs. These relations will always flourish in times to come.Both Nepal and Pakistan are blessed with abundant natural beauty, especially mountains. How do you think this can be exploited to the benefit of the two countries?Nature has blessed Pakistan and Nepal with landscape unique in the world. Like I said before, world’s highest peaks are concentrated in our two countries. Mountain tourism seasons in Nepal and Pakistan come one after the other. While mid March to early June is considered ideal for climbing expeditions in Nepal, mid May to end of August is supposed to be the best time for climbing in Pakistan. This virtually means that one can enjoy climbing in both the countries one after the other without having to wait for the next season. If properly planned and coordinated, our two countries can share mountain tourists. But this is not all. Together, we also offer religious, and adventure tourism. We just need to promote it to our mutual benefit.Then the icing on the cake is that we are just two-and-half hours away from each other. PIA has already doubled its flights between Karachi and Kathmandu to four flights a week. All this augurs well for tourism promotion in Pakistan and Nepal. In fact, I actually see mutual benefit for our two countries in this sector.What suggestions would you offer to enhance people to people contact between the two countries.I think people to people contact, in addition to the official interaction, is assuming enormous importance in interstate relations. It is a powerful means of bringing the countries together. I call it a non-conventional institutional mechanism. Nepal Pakistan Friendship and Cultural Association which was created back in 1970 by friends of Pakistan in Nepal, is an excellent example of people to people contact. It has evolved as a strong forum over three decades. It is a manifestation of excellent bilateral relations between Pakistan and Nepal and the sentiments of love and affection that the peoples of our two countries have for each other.Being established, managed and run by those Nepalese friends who are or have been associated with Pakistan in some capacity have special feelings for Pakistan, I think the association is already playing significant role not only in consolidating people to people contact but also enhancing mutual goodwill and respect. It has been sixty years since Pakistan was created. India became independent in the same year. In terms of level of development and economic growth, India is far ahead. Why has Pakistan lagged behind?Without drawing any comparison, I would state that the two countries have their own economic dynamics and development pace. As for Pakistan, our economic fundamentals are sound, growth rate is robust 6% plus despite inflationary pressures and spiraling oil prices, middle class—the driving force behind the economic development—is expanding apace, educated work force is on the ascend and all sectors of economy are showing reasonable performance despite external shocks. Pakistan’s level of development and economic progress is fairly good in the region.The conflict between India and Pakistan has been an obstacle for the overall peace in South Asia. What are the major issues that have affected the relationship between Pakistan and India and how do you think these issues can be resolved?We all have a fairly comprehensive knowledge about the issues between Pakistan and India, the most important being the Kashmir dispute. It is now perhaps one of the oldest disputes waiting to be resolved. To resolve this and other issues, the two countries have been engaged in a dialogue process, known as Composite Dialogue since January 2004. So far four rounds have been held. The last round was held in Islamabad on 21 May 2008 with Ministerial level review. It was preceded by the Foreign Secretary level meeting on 20 May 2008. The talks were held in a friendly and constructive atmosphere. Fifth Round of the Composite Dialogue will be held in New Delhi in July 2008.Eight segments of the Composite Dialogue were covered during the fourth round: (i) Peace and Security, including CBMs; (ii) Jammu and Kashmir; (iii) Siachen; (iv) Sir Creek; (v) Wullar Barrage; (vi) Terrorism and Drugs Trafficking; (vii) Economic and Commercial Cooperation; and (viii) Promotion of Friendly Exchanges.We hope that with the progress in the Composite Dialogue the overall atmosphere in South Asia will also improve.From Pakistan’s perspective, what are the most important issues in terms of regional development and economic growth and how Pakistan can address those issues?For us, security in and around our region is of utmost importance, without which no form of progress can become sustainable. Our countries have achieved impressive economic progress in the last several years. However, all this progress remains vulnerable due to security challenges confronting us. These challenges have both long and short term. These challenges, therefore, need to be confronted head on and the issues have to be resolved amicably. While attaining peace and security in the region remains our aim, a strong, democratic, progressive Islamic state of Pakistan is our vision for achieving this aim. We see Pakistan as a country in the region that provides peace, prosperity, and security to its people and its own progress radiates to its neighbors, creating positive impact in the region. Our aspirations are to accelerate our socio-economic development, build a knowledge based society and contribute to peace and development in the world consistent with the deeply held values of our faith and our vision for a modern progressive Islamic state. Pakistan is an important member of SAARC. How do you think SAARC should move ahead to achieve its goals? SAARC has entered its third decade. Over the years, we have succeeded in developing and elaborating a framework for regional cooperation. From small beginnings, limited to technical collaboration and cooperation, we now have concluded agreements and made decisions for substantive interaction, and chalked out programmes aimed at social uplift, poverty alleviation, enhanced people to people contacts, establishment of a free trade arrangement and environmental protection.We have travelled a long distance, but much remains to be accomplished. Our progress remains short of our aspirations. South Asia has yet to forge the quality and intensity of regional cooperation that we have witnessed in many other regions of the world, bringing about a revolutionary transformation in the lives of their people.How can Pakistan assist Nepal’s economic development?Relations between Pakistan and Nepal are marked by warmth and friendship. This warmth and friendship transcends all facets of our bilateral relations, including economic relations. In addition we have institutional mechanisms in place to facilitate the useful cooperation. Joint Economic Commission is one such institution. Within these institutional mechanisms, Pakistan will always help and support Nepal’s economic development. Despite being so close, the trade between Nepal and Pakistan is not encouraging. What should be done to promote trade between Nepal and Pakistan?Indeed economic and trade relations between Pakistan and Nepal are not commensurate with the actual potential and potential will of the two countries. Lack of direct road or sea link between the two countries is a major impediment in expanding bilateral trade.
Comments
Post a Comment