ISLAMABAD - Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was all praise for his economic team for putting the country’s economy on sustainable growth which was acknowledged by international financial institutions and agencies.

While extending appreciation to Finance Minister Ishaq Dar and his economic managers, the Prime Minister said that their tireless efforts have resulted in unprecedented economic returns for the country.

He especially mentioned the achieving of milestones in the economic sphere in a short span of time and putting the country on the path of sustainable economic growth and prosperity.

The country’s foreign exchange reserves have crossed $23 billion, which stood at $6.8 billion in June 2013. The present highest foreign exchange reserves in Pakistan’s history speak volumes of the success of our government’s economic policies. “Our policies are aimed at achieving long-term economic stability and sustainable growth,” PM added. He said that tax collection to the tune of Rs3104 billion represents 60 per cent increase in last three years, which is an average increase of 20 per cent per annum. While these average increases was mere 3 per cent for the period 2008-2013.

The PM emphasised that the next two financial years would see more economic growth and enhanced investments in the energy and infrastructure sectors. “Our government is already executing Rs900 billion infrastructure projects which include $1.5 billion as private investment,” he added.

He said that achieving the status of emerging market by Pakistan is the reflection of prudent financial and economic policies of our government which are recognised by International Financial Institutions and agencies. “Success of our government’s vision is not confined to rhetoric rather vividly reflected in the economic growth,” he added.