Brussels : A 34-year-old Pakistani-origin woman has been appointed President of the Municipal Council of Ostend in Belgium's West Flanders province.

Hina Bhatti, whose parents arrived in Belgium 40 years ago from Pakistan, had worked for a year in then Secretary of State Bart Tommelein's cabinet.

The liberal politician was born and raised in Ostend, Geo TV reported on Monday.

"I don't mind when people talk about my roots. I have many contacts within the different communities. We have an open house where everybody is welcome," Hina told Geo TV.-Agency