Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has said return of PIA to UK skies is success of Pakistan.

He welcomed the lifting of British Air Safety Board's ban on Pakistani flights.

In a statement, he said irresponsible statements by leaders of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in the past inflicted irreparable damage to reputation of Pakistan. Due to it our national carrier was kept deprived of important international routes including UK and Europe for years.

He said the lifting of flight restrictions is a matter of satisfaction for Pakistanis residing in Britain and described it a significant milestone for the country.

Shehbaz Sharif said this positive development will enhance Pakistan's image at the international level and further strengthen bilateral cooperation with Britain.

He said efforts are rapidly underway to make Pakistani airlines competitive with global carriers in the aviation sector.

The PM appreciated the untiring efforts of Deputy PM, Defence minister, entire Aviation Team and all other stake holders in this regard.