UK, Pakistan and Afghanistan: trilateral dialogue among women MPs begins today

A three-day dialogue among women parliamentarians of Pakistan, United Kingdom and Afghanistan will start today (Thursday) in Islamabad to strengthen their role in legislatures and broaden the understanding of issues impacting women in their respective countries.
The dialogue is being organised by Women Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) in collaboration with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA-UK Branch) aimed at fostering bilateral relations between the women MPs. The British and Afghan delegates would arrive in Islamabad on February 20, 2014. During their stay in Islamabad, the women MPs would ponder upon the issues and impediments with emphasis on gender component and focus on education, maternal healthcare and socio-economic development.
The UK delegation is led by Lord Speaker of the House of Lords Baroness D'Souza whereas Dr Golalai Nur Safi, MP would be leading the Afghan delegation. The Pakistani delegation would comprise Women Members of the National Assembly and Senate. Dr Fehmida Mirza, the Parton (WPC) will inaugurate the dialogue in Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services (PIPS), Islamabad, delivering a keynote address. The Federal Ministers for National Health Services & Regulations and Education have been invited to give the participants, an insight into the government policies and initiatives with respect to healthcare and education in Pakistan.