PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif has said that Pakistan could have hosted the G20 summit if the policies led by his government were continued.

“Had 2017 [policies] continued, this G20 meeting would have been held in Pakistan,” he told reporters in London, United Kingdom on Monday. “Had 2017 [policies] continued, Pakistan would have joined the G20 or was going to be.”

He was responding to a query pertaining to the summit of the world’s 20 economies being hosted by India. Nawaz’s response was somewhat similar to former finance minister Ishaq Dar’s claims that Pakistan was becoming part of the leading economies when the PML-N was in power.

The claim comes days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed leaders of the world’s top 20 economies. The declaration noted with deep concern the immense human suffering and the adverse impact of wars and conflicts around the world.

Many experts believe despite the BJP-led Indian government’s treatment of minorities and human rights violations, Modi managed to bolster his country’s image on the world stage. But there was also a view of presenting India as a counter force against China.

The G20 summit was not the only event where world issues and connectivity was discussed.

On September 10, Global leaders announced a multinational rail and ports deal linking the Middle East and South Asia on Saturday on the sidelines of the G20 summit in New Delhi.

US President Joe Biden said it was a “real big deal” that would bridge ports across two continents and lead to a “more stable, more prosperous and integrated Middle East.”

India hailed its “strategic” partnership with Saudi Arabia on Monday, days after unveiling a major trade and transport route.