ISLAMABAD, May 3 (APP):Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser on Friday asked the government to present comprehensive progress report of commercial attaches posted at various embassies across the world in the National Assembly.
During question hour, the Speaker said, “A comprehensive progress report of commercial attaches posted at various embassies of the world to increase trade activities should be presented in the National Assembly.”
The Speaker also appreciated the preparations of Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs Andleeb Abbas and said, “I appreciate the performance of the Parliamentary Secretary for her effective reply to all the questions raised by the members.”
Andleeb Abbas apprised the House that it was unfortunate that no target had been given to commercial attaches deployed at various world embassies. She said the present government had introduced economic diplomacy to attract foreign investment and promote trade relations with other countries.
Andleeb Abbas said the commercial attaches have been given the message that their responsibilities were to earn revenue for the country. She also sought suggestions and help from the lawmakers to improve performance of the commercial attaches.
Responding to another question, she said that strict financial controls were in place to ensure financial propriety. Besides, austerity measures announced by the government from time to time, were also being implemented in letter and spirit.
She said Pakistan’s mission in Saudi Arabia was actively engaged with Saudi authorities for the release of 2107 Pakistani prisoners as was announced by Saudi Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman during his visit to Pakistan. Andleeb Abbas said both the countries were currently compiling the list of the prisoners.
