Delegation of UK Commonwealth Parliamentary Association calls on Foreign Minister Qureshi

(2011-01-24)

A 10 member delegation of UK Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), led by Mr. Roger Gale MP, called on the Foreign Minister today. The Foreign Minister briefed the delegation on the measures taken by the government to strengthen democratic institutions in the country and on passage of the 18th & 19th Constitutional Amendments. The Foreign Minister also briefed the delegation on the approval of the 7th National Finance Commission Award. He underlined that the democratic government of Pakistan was actively engaged in institution building in the country, adding that the continuity of democratic dispensation in Pakistan was essential for its long term stability and prosperity.

The Foreign Minister underscored the need for closer cooperation between the UK and Pakistani parliaments bilaterally, as well as under the umbrella of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. He also underscored the role that the British Pakistan Foundation can play in enhancing people-to-people contacts between Pakistan and the UK and fostering closer economic cooperation between the two countries.

Views were also exchanged on the regional issues including the situation in Indian held Kashmir and the role that the Commonwealth can play for the resolution of this longstanding issue.

Islamabad
24 January 2011

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