Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz has said that a stable Afghanistan is essential for peace in the region Islamabad: Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz has said that a stable Afghanistan is essential for peace in the region and Pakistan will continue to support the Afghan government to achieve this objective. The Prime Minister said this during his one-on-one meeting with Prince Karim Aga Khan who called on him at the PM’s House this evening. The Prime Minister said that the causes and the solution of the challenges being faced by Afghanistan lie in Afghanistan and Pakistan will continue to extend all-out cooperation to Afghanistan in overcoming these challenges. The Prime Minister also apprised Prince Karim Aga Khan of the situation in the region and efforts being made by Pakistan to settle all outstanding issues in a peaceful manner. The Prime Minister said that the investments being made by the Aga Khan Development Network in the business and commercial sectors have also made a significant contribution in the economic development of Pakistan. The Prime Minister said Pakistan is keen to leverage its vast potential of tourism and is taking various steps to promote it by creating the necessary infrastructure in the form of hotels, motels, roads and transport. He appreciated the contribution of Prince Karim Aga Khan towards the promotion of tourism in Pakistan particularly in the Northern Areas as this would increase economic opportunities in the area. The Prime Minister said the government has undertaken numerous reforms which have improved the investment climate in the country. As a result of the government’s holistic reform agenda the size of the economy and GDP have doubled during the last seven years and foreign direct investment is likely to surpass $5 billion mark by the end of the year, he said. Talking about President Pervez Musharraf’s concept of enlightened moderation the Prime Minister said that interfaith harmony is essential for the wholesome growth and development of the Muslim Ummah and for promoting peace and harmony in the world. The Prime Minister said that Prince Karim Aga Khan in keeping with the traditions of his forefathers is making invaluable contributions in establishing centers of excellence in the field of education, health, tourism and architecture which are reflective of his abiding commitment and faith in Pakistan. Prince Karim Aga Khan said the economic achievements made by Pakistan during the last seven years are impressive and have paved the way for increased investment in the country. Later, the Prime Minister hosted a dinner in honour of Prince Karim Aga Khan.