Pakistan defence products in great demand

Federal Minister for Defence Production Abdul Qayyum Khan Jatoi has said the country’s defence products have gained international recognition and are in great demand but lack of necessary funds is preventing Pakistan Ordnance Factories from further enhancing its production capacity.

Speaking to the media during his visit to the stall of POF established at the Defence Systems and Equipment International Exhibition which opened in East London Docklands Tuesday, the Minister said Pakistan is exporting small and medium arms to the Middle East, Africa and south Asia and due to its low cost but high standard, the ordnance is in great demand.

“We could increase our production capacity at least five times, but for that we require substantial funding of which there is presently a dearth,” he said

The Minister said Vietnam and Kenya are the latest countries to seek arms from Pakistan and agreement in this regard could be signed soon. He spoke of strong defence relations with France and said Pakistan already has several agreements with the European country.

Jatoi said the Government is fully aware of the requirement of its defence forces and has taken many steps to meet them. He said defence of the country could not be compromised or lowered at any cost.

The Minister also mentioned that during the course of the Defence exhibition, Pakistan will endeavour to seek fresh markets and thereby increase its defence exports.

Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK Wajid Shamsul Hasan who was also present on the occasion said the world has acknowledged the professional competency of Pakistani defence products and the defence industry is making big strides to attain further technological proficiency.

Defence Attache Commodore Asif Saleem said the participation in Defence events help the Pakistani defence industry to inter-act with other leading manufacturers and seek new knowledge and information about various equipments.

He mentioned that in 2008 Pakistan Defence exhibition held in Karachi, as many 22 UK firms participated which benefitted the Pakistani defence contractors and manufacturers.  Associated news agencies