His Excellency Mr. Shaukut Aziz, Prime Minister of Pakistan, delivered a distinguished lecture at the Chinese University of Hong Kong on 12th August. Titled 'Pakistan's Vision for the Asian Century: Promoting Cooperation for Peace and Development', the one-hour lecture and Q&A session clearly illustrated how, in the new millennium, Pakistan is able to play a more important role in Asia's political, economic and anti-terrorist arenas, as well as overall development.
Mr. Aziz pointed out that Pakistan is no longer the socially unstable country it was six years ago. Under the leadership of President Musharraf, the country has carried out political, economic and social reforms, and introduced policies to promote privatization. With a growth rate of 8.4 per cent, Pakistan's economic growth now ranks second in Asia, just under China. The country therefore has the capacity to play a more effective role in the business and economics of the region.
On the question of anti-terrorism, Mr. Aziz stressed that it is a global issue of whom we are all victims. He stated that Pakistan has been victimized by terrorism for the past two decades, and has been participating in international anti-terrorism cooperation even before the 911 attacks in America.
However he did point out that new strategy is needed for any anti-terrorist efforts to succeed. Terrorism, he said, originated from unresolved problems in Palestine, Afghanistan and Iraq. Violence alone is not a solution; winning hearts is also important. Mr. Aziz remarked that it is wrong to point the finger at Islam as it would only promote hate and misunderstanding.
The Pakistani government now advocates the new strategy of 'open and moderate development'. Apart from persuading Islamic societies to carry out reforms and modernization, the Western world should also be advised to help resolve the anger and disappointment of the Islamic world.
Regarding the relationship with China, Mr. Aziz said that friendly cooperation between Pakistan and China goes back to the age of the Silk Road. It has also been long-term and diverse, covering politics, economics, technology, and national defence. He observed that at the United Nation's general assemblies, China and Pakistan hold similar views on numerous topics of discussion. The two are currently collaborating to develop fighter jets for sale to nations with whom they are on friendly terms.
Quoting his meeting with Premier Zhu Rongji several years ago when he was still Pakistan's Minister of Finance, Mr. Aziz recalled that he had shown Premier Zhu his blueprint for reform and the latter had reassured him that he would succeed if he persevered. It was clear from this that the two countries have been enjoying close ties with each other.
When asked what role Hong Kong could play in the picture, Mr. Aziz praised Hong Kong for being not only a financial hub but also a media centre and the gate to the global market. Doubters of Hong Kong's continued success after the handover are deeply mistaken, he said, as they have forgotten that this success is built on a people full of entrepreneurial spirit and who exploit every business opportunity. In fact, Hong Kong's prosperity is the perfect proof of Hong Kongers' flexibility and adaptability.
Mr. Aziz reiterated that there has never been a place with as strong an entrepreneurial spirit as Hong Kong. Accompanying him on this visit was a large delegation of economic representatives who were here, he quipped, to 'breathe in the air of entrepreneuriality.'
The hour-long lecture was warmly received. Among the 400 members of audience were, besides the Pakistani delegation, consulate-generals, staff and students of the University, and Hong Kong's political and business leaders.