ISLAMABAD, JAN 29 (DNA) -: Speaker National Assembly, Asad Qaiser has underlined the need for rebranding Pakistan’s soft image.

He added that concerted efforts should be made to project Pakistan’s soft image on international stage to attract investment, tourism and ideas.

He expressed these views while talking to Parliamentary Secretary for Commerce Ms. Shandana Gulzar Khan who called on him at Speaker House.

The Speaker highlighted that a sustained propaganda and tense regional situation equated Pakistan’s image with terrorism and violent extremism.

This image has distorted Pakistan’s truly diverse, vibrant and peaceful image and underestimated Pakistan’s diversity and market potential.

 He emphatically stressed the need for new narrative for promoting Pakistan’s cultural, economic and democratic credentials. He added that the political leadership across the board should take the complete ownership of the new soft image building narrative of Pakistan.

The Speaker assured complete cooperation and support to government for Pakistan’s renewed branding and added that the Parliament will take a lead role in this initiative.

He added that newly formed Parliamentary Friendship Groups will add a new impetus to Pakistan’s parliamentary diplomacy and endeavors for promoting international trade.

He assured that Parliament will leave no stone unturned to assist the government in reducing Pakistan’s trade deficit.

 He reiterated that the National Assembly will conduct monthly progress review of the Friendship Groups and high performing groups will be rewarded incentives.=DNA

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