Call of British MPs on the President

(2009-01-09) A delegation of British Parliamentarians – Mohammad Sarwar, Jim McGovern, Jim Divine and Mark Fisher – called on the President of Pakistan today. Ambassador at Large Javed Malik accompanied them.

The Parliamentarians expressed strong solidarity with Pakistan and its people. They thanked the Government of Pakistan for making all the arrangements for their visit which would strengthen the bonds of friendship between the two countries. The delegation also offered their deep felt condolences on the tragic assassination of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed. They stated that an early day motion had been passed by the British Parliament supporting a UN inquiry into the assassination. The MPs greatly appreciated the President’s principled position on this issue.

The President briefed the Parliamentarians on the strengthening of democratic institutions in Pakistan, the economic reforms of the Government, the status of Pakistan’s request for a UN inquiry into the assassination of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed and Pakistan’s fight against terrorism and extremism. The President underlined that defeat was not an option for Pakistan.

The MPs also discussed with the President enhancing Pakistan’s image and prestige abroad particularly in the UK. They proposed the establishment of a Pakistan International Forum in the UK which would promote Pakistan’s interest and image. The President appreciated these efforts and expressed support for the forum.

Islamabad
09 January 2009

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