RIYADH, (DNA) –  Former chief of army staff General Raheel Sharif expressed a hope that Pakistan will soon emerge as the economic power of the world.

Addressing a ceremony program organized by Bazm-e-Riaz in collaboration with the Embassy of Pakistan to celebrate the 71st independence day of Pakistan in Saudi Arabia, the ex-army chief also attached hopes with the newly-elected government of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for the progress of the country.

The Commander-in-chief of Islamic Military Alliance, who was a special guest in the program, said, “We have to work together as one nation for its progress”. He said that democracy was flourishing in the country.

“We hope that the new upcoming government will do a progressive work for Pakistan and its peoples,” he added.

“Our progress is ongoing. I believe the economic situation becomes better in those countries where peace and stability are better. Every overseas Pakistani is the ambassador of the country so each one of you needs to show higher values to highlight Pakistan in other countries of the world,” Saudi Gazette quoted Sharif, as saying.

“Pakistan has a great potential, wherever I go in the world and in Saudi Arabia, I feel proud of them. Pakistanis are known for their hard work and wonderful abilities and they have built their own and unique identity on the basis of their extraordinary talent.

Pakistani Ambassador Khan Hasham Bin Saddique, who was the chief guest, also addressed the ceremony.