Islamabad; April 22, 2014: Speaker Khyber Pukhtunkhwa Assembly Asad Qaiser called on Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq in Parliament House, today.

Various issues of mutual interest besides strengthening of cooperation between National and Provincial Legislature came under discussion.

Mr. Asad Qaiser appreciated the holding of 17th Speakers’ Conference in Islamabad and suggested that it should be held on regular basis. He regretted his non-participation in the conference since he was holding the Charge of Acting Governor Khyber Pukhtunkhwa during those days. He said that regular discourse between Presiding officers of National and Provincial legislatures and officers would help share experiences and best practices.

While welcoming the Provincial Speaker, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq reassured his cooperation to strengthen the democratic and parliamentary traditions. He said that he would ensure regular holding of the Speakers’ Conference during his tenure as Speaker. He said that a follow-up mechanism is being developed on the recommendations of the Conference which would ensure implementation of the decision of the Conference. He also informed the Speaker about the measures initiated for restructuring of the National Assembly Secretariat, automation of the official record and creation of paperless environment. He said that Parliament of Pakistan would have a unique distinction being powered by Solar Energy by the end of this year. He said that provincial legislatures should follow the suit and assured his and National Assembly Secretariat’s all-out support in that regard.

Mr. Asad Qaiser praised Sardar Ayaz Sadiq for his sagacious leadership and said that indeed it would be a privilege for the provincial legislatures to replicate the measures taken by the National Legislature to strengthen the democratic institutions. He also apprised the Speaker about the ongoing developmental work going on in Khyber Pukhtunkhwa. Mr. Asad Qaiser also invited Speaker National Assembly to visit Khyber Pukhtunkhwa and witness the proceedings of the Khyber Pukhtunkhwa Assembly which he accepted.