Pakistan-United States bilateral ties based on mutual interests and respect, says National Assembly Speaker

Islamabad, February 12, 2014 (PPI-OT): Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Speaker National Assembly has said that Pakistan and US have the same stated objectives of peace and stability in the region and we hope that our bilateral engagement would continue to broaden on basis of mutual respect and mutual interests. He was talking to a 10-Members media delegation from “The International Center for Journalists (ICFJ)” of United States which called on him in Parliament House, today.

He said that Pakistan attaches high value to its US relations and we would like to enhance this relation. Our relationship with US is important and multifaceted. It is in the interest of the two countries to build on the current momentum in the ties and take the relationship to a strategic level that is sustainable and long term. “We want to promote trade with US which is an important market for our goods” he added.

The Speaker said that Pakistan is facing challenges like terrorism, extremism, poverty, illiteracy, inflation and energy shortages but the country is moving in the right direction and will successfully resolve the problems confronting it. Pakistan needed support of the international community to strengthen democracy, alleviate poverty and improve social well being of the people, Speaker added.

The Speaker said that we are committed to the freedom of media subject to the provisions of the Constitution of Pakistan and the State laws. Government does not believe in press advice, censorship and control of content or information.

Sardar Ayaz Sadiq said that we always welcome the objective and healthy criticism from the media which is vital to the functioning of any democracy, promotion of democratic values, transparency and good governance. We believe that the role of electronic media, that extends beyond news and entertainment to actively contributing to the achievement of broader social and economic goals.

He said that this visit has provided them an opportunity to see the ground realities and factual problems being faced by Pakistan. He urged that after going back to their country, they should portray positive image of Pakistan. The delegation appreciated the level of independence provided to media in Pakistan and wished that democracy may further flourish in the country.

For more information, contact:
Karamat Hussain Niazi
Secretary
National Assembly of Pakistan
Parliament House, Islamabad
Tel: +9251 922 1082 -83
Fax: +9251 922 1106