Nation cannot sustain prolonged lockdown: FM Qureshi

ISLAMABAD: Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has said that our economy can not sustain a prolonged lockdown imposed due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

While addressing a parliamentary committee session, the foreign minister said, “Prolonged lockdown can be harmful for the poor strata of the society.”

The foreign minister expressed relief that the coronavirus has not wreaked havoc in the country like it has in many others. Qureshi said that the holy month of Ramzan is a crucial time for the country and strict vigilance is required to avoid disaster.

Qureshi further asserted that the government is doing its best with the limited resources at its disposal but the main onus lies on the masses and the precautions they take against the virus.

He also hailed the work being done by each individual in the wake of the global outbreak. The foreign minister stressed that it is necessary to focus energies on healthcare and economy in these tough times. “We must create a balance between the economy and well being of our people,” said Qureshi.

Qureshi also asked authorities to actively address problems being faced by healthcare professionals and urged that they are provided with all the necessary medical and safety equipment to take care of those affected by the dangerous virus.