KATHMANDU: Federal Finance Minister, Mohammad Ishaq Dar arrived here to attend the 7th SAARC Finance Minister’s Meeting scheduled to be held on 20th August (today).
Soon after his arrival, the Finance Minister accompanied by members of Pakistani delegation visited Hanuman Dhoka in darbari square at Kathmandu which was badly affected in the earthquake. It used to be a palace surrounded by temples and was highly revered by the Nepalese people who visited it in large numbers.
Finance Minister was briefed about the scale of destruction that was caused by the earthquake. The Minister met a number of people during the short visit, conveying them warm sentiments of goodwill from the Pakistani people and said his country was always in the fore to help out the Nepalese brethren in the hour of need and would also extend all possible help in future.
Later Suraj Vaidya, acting president of SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry called on Finance Minister along with prominent businessmen. Suraj Vaidya welcomed the Minister to the 7th Finance Minister’s Meeting. They had detailed discussion on enhancing trade and business cooperation between Pakistan and other SAARC countries, particularly Nepal. Minister Dar apprised Mr. Vaidya about the host of opportunities in various economic sectors in Pakistan. He said the government of Pakistan offered a liberal investment regime which was there to be availed by prospective foreign investors. Mr. Vaidya on this occasion also discussed with the Minister increasing role of private sector within SAARC. He thanked the Minister for help provided by Pakistan for affected people after the earthquake in Nepal. He observed that Nepal could seek help in agriculture, garments, hydro power. Acting President SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry also requested Finance Minister for resumption of PIA flight.
