American Ambassador Anne W Patterson encouraged "strong, vibrant institutions essential for democracy in Pakistan". Inaugurating the Punjab Assembly's new Parliamentary Resource Centre on the second day of her visit to Lahore on Thursday, she said.
"The Pakistan Legislative Strengthening Program demonstrates US commitment to assist the people of Pakistan in building such institutions". She said. "The Resource Centre will provide support and information to members of the assembly as they debate and legislate on important issues." Ambassador Patterson congratulated the multi-party steering committee and the Provincial Assembly Secretariat for their interest and support to the project.
US envoy also visited a madrassa, Jamia Raheemia Taleem-ul Quran, where she encouraged inter-faith dialogue. Maulana Zubair Abid, head of the madrassa and Chairman of the Pakistan Ulema and Mushaikh Council greeted the American diplomat on her arrival. The Speaker, Deputy Speaker and Punjab Legislative Strengthening Program Steering Committee members were also present.