Corruption, group interests are Pakistan's major problems: President Alvi

ISLAMABAD: President Arif Alvi, in his maiden speech to the joint session of the Parliament, said the newly-elected government is on a path to build ‘Naya Pakistan’ with core focus on ridding the society of corruption.

The lawmakers of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz, the main opposition party, walked out of the session, however the president’s speech remained un-disrupted.

During his speech, Mr. Alvi said: “Our political system suffered blows for several reasons, but we [the country] successfully completed last three democratic tenures.”

WATCH

https://youtu.be/jIGIFNElEWw

He said the biggest reason of issues facing Pakistan are corruption and group interests.

He underlined that elections of July 25 proved that people were fed up of ‘dishonesty’, hence they wanted a system of governance devoid of any corruption.

Profile: Arif Alvi: An activist who wants to be an ‘Active President’

President Alvi said accountability institutions need to be improved. “Current government wants to build Naya Pakistan on basis of employing simplicity and ridding the society of corruption.”

We must understand that we are debt-ridden nation and we need capital to run our affairs, adding that the government will take measures to tackle this situation, he added.

For addressing water crisis, the president said the country was in need of building dams.

I hope, he said, the government would devise a roadmap to streamline all sectors that contribute to progress of the country.

He also called for prevent wastage of water and reserve the precious resource that was at the brink of becoming scarce.

The president said the government must promote the advanced system of irrigation as well as bridging the gap between resources and population growth. He also underlined the need to create job opportunities keeping in view merit.

“We want better relations with India on the basis of equality and will appreciate all positive gestures from the other side for promoting peace and tranquility,” he stated.

He said Pakistan populace and the government would continue to support cause of Kashmiris against oppression, and also remind the international forums of their responsibility.

Economy

The president told the House that circular debts have risen over Rs 1.1 trillion and that needs to be curtailed in no time.

He stated that the government must attract foreign investors to address challenges facing the Pakistan’s economy. He also said that industries in the country were not operating and unemployment was rising.

In appreciation of the armed forces of the country, President acknowledged sacrifices rendered by the Pakistan army, adding that they deserve huge credit for their front-line role against terrorism.

He said Pakistan populace and the government would continue to support cause of Kashmiris against oppression, and would also remind the international forums of their role in this regard.

Mr. Alvi emphasized the need for strengthening relations with neighboring countries.