Leader of the Opposition in National Assembly Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan called for a proactive role by Britain in defusing the ongoing tension between India and Pakistan due to Mumbai incident. Talking to a delegation of British MPs at Parliament House, comprising Jim McGovern, Jim Divine, Mark Fisher and Chaudhry Mohammed Sarwar.
The Opposition Leader said democracy in Pakistan is in transitional stage for which the support of friendly states was vital. He was of the view that strong democratic institutions and independent judiciary were pre-requisites of a stable and prosperous nation.
"In order to make Pakistan impregnable and economically robust, institutions should be strengthened and will of the people should prevail," said Chaudhary Nisar Ali Khan. He said Pakistan should be supported by the international community to curb the menace of militancy and terrorism instead of casting aspersions on Pakistan regarding its efforts for dealing with it.
Nisar called upon UK to extend minimum diplomatic and economic support to the government so that it could ensure good governance and overcome the present crisis. He also called for enhanced interaction between the parliamentarians especially Public Account Committees of both countries so that they could share their experiences.
The British MPs appreciated the concerns of the Leader of the Opposition and assured their all-out support at international and regional forums in tackling the problems being faced by Pakistan. They agreed that Islam is religion of peace and abhors extremism and terrorism like other religions. The British MPs said their visit has provided them an opportunity to interact with Pakistanis in understanding the ground realities and clearing misperceptions about Pakistan.