PM Imran tells WEF session... Pakistan on path to growth after tough economic period Pledges not to become part of any conflict;'Sees no immediate fear of Pakistan and India war.

Davos -- The premier began his speech by talking about his government's tree plantation campaign, which he said was expanded across the country after seeing its success in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He said the government aims to plant 10 billion trees in the next four years to deal with the consequences of climate change. Prime Minister Imran said forestation was crucial because not only is Pakistan vulnerable to global warming but because pollution has become a 'silent killer' in cities across the country.Recounting how militancy took root in Pakistan since the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, the premier said: 'You cannot make your economy grow unless and until there is peace and stability.' He said his government had decided upon coming into power that, 'From now onwards Pakistan will only partner another country in peace. We will not become part of any other conflict.'

To further that policy, he said Pakistan has tried to ease tensions between Iran and Saudi Arabia as well as Iran and the United States. In addition 'it is the nearest we are to some sort of a peaceful solution in Afghanistan', the prime minister said. Recalling that his government had inherited the 'worst economic crisis' in the country's history, Prime Minister Imran said he has never had to face the kind of 'public attitude' that he encountered in the last one year due to the tough economic decisions taken by the government. 'People are hurting. We have gone through this very tough period,' he said, adding that the economy has now been stabilised. 'This year we are looking towards economic growth.'He said Pakistan's top advantage is its youthful population but regretted that 'we have neglected this young population because we did not concentrate on skill development [and] equipping them to become entrepreneurs.' He noted that the government has now launched a programme for skills development and made funds available for startups.

Another advantage that Pakistan has is its 'untapped' mineral wealth, Prime Minister Imran said, adding that the government's attention is now on developing these resources.

Talking about Pakistan's strategic location, the premier highlighted the trade potential among the regional countries. 'The moment Pakistan and India's relationship becomes normal and trade starts between the two countries', immense opportunities for growth will emerge, he said.

Prime Minister Imran said Pakistan has not been able to fulfill its potential because of the way...