ISLAMABAD – Minister of State for Tourism Sumaira Malik has asked women to play their role in bringing political, social, cultural and economic changes.

Addressing a meeting organised by All Pakistan Women Association (APWA) in Islamabad on September 18, she said country could easily achieve its development targets if men and women go ahead side by side.

“It is right time to change our behaviour towards women, as woman can do all that a man is doing, ” she added.

Sumaira praised the role of APWA highlighting women contribution and their basic rights.

“APWA is the first ever organisation which introduced women’s rights in all walks of life” she said.

She was optimistic women’s rights would be highlighted after their representation in legislation and other policy making forums.

She assured APWA of her co-operation and support and said the women would be given opportunities to visit regional countries.

“Give me good mothers, I give you a good nation” she quoted Napoleon Bonapart saying.

When asked about her ministry she said the ministry would be upgraded and added tourism sector would be more productive and lucrative industry in near future and there would be more economic activity in the sector with more jobs creation.

She further said the plan would soon be discussed with the Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz and device a new tourism policy.

To a question she said president’s uniform was imperative for smooth implementation of economic policies and good governance.

Source: Business Recorder

Date:9/19/2004