Response to question on Media reports about INGOs

In response to a query regarding media reports that Pakistan was closing down international INGO operations in Pakistan, the spokesperson clarified that there was no such move. He stated that a process to streamline the activities of INGOs was underway. The Prime Minister has set up a high powered Inter-Ministerial Committee under the Chairmanship of Tariq Fatemi, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister for this purpose. The Committee would make recommendations for bringing improvement in the existing rules and procedures for screening, regulation and monitoring of INGOs, to ensure transparency, efficiency and compliance with laid down framework with a view to optimizing the benefit of INGOs’ contribution and activities in support of our national development goals, while ensuring respect for our culture, norms and security.

He expressed the hope that the process would lead to better coordination and working environment.

Islamabad
5th June 2015

221/2015