SUNDAY TIMES ISLAMABAD:Pakistan is opening up to the world with improved security situation in the country”, this he stated while addressing the Graduation ceremony of 27th Advanced Diplomatic Course organized by Foreign Service Academy for foreign diplomats in Islamabad.

Referring to the geo strategic location of Pakistan, the finance minister said Pakistan is the pivot of the Silk Route.

He said we are in the process of implementing China Pakistan Economic Corridor project which has strengthened our economic relations with the time tested friend China and ties are also improving with Iran.

Referring to the recent escalation with India, Umar said Pulwama attack was result of inner politics of India as the elections are to be held over there.

He further said efforts were underway to isolate Pakistan at the international level by India from last two decades.

On Afghanistan, Asad Umar said Pakistan’s efforts for the Afghan peace process are now widely being appreciated.

He said Pakistan will continue to play its role to make the dialogue process successful