Speaker's Press Releases

Islamabad, July 22, 2010 Collective Efforts and Bilateral Decision-Making Imperative for Regional Peace and Stability: Says NA Speaker

COLLECTIVE EFFORTS AND BILATERAL DECISION-MAKING IMPERATIVE FOR REGIONAL PEACE AND STABILITY: SYAS NA SPEAKER

Islamabad July 22, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that threat posed to the peace and stability of the region has necessitated collective efforts and bilateral decision-making for solving regional problems. She underlined the need for adopting a comprehensive political approach and collective efforts against the campaign against terrorism, which had undermined regional interests. She said this in her meeting with Mr. Ali Ardeshir Larijani, Speaker Iranian Majlis in Geveva, today.

In a meeting between both the Speakers, agreed for jointly addressing the bane of terrorism and extremism and discussed various issues of mutual concerns especially areas of increasing parliamentary ties, government to government contacts and bilateral trade and economic ties. They also agreed for exploiting the vast potential of cooperation between in the energy sector.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza also met Mr. Amin Mulia Pandikar, Speaker of the House of Representatives of Malaysia. Both the Speakers expressed satisfaction on the existing bilateral and parliamentary ties between both the brotherly countries. They agreed for enhancing cooperation in economic and manufacturing sectors.

Earlier, Madam Speaker address the plenary session of the 3rd World Speakers’ Conference at Geneva, Switzerland. Dr. Fehmida Mirza in her address said that democracy was imperative to address the problems confronting world peace and stability. She called upon the major players in the world to support democratic process in the developing world. She called for redressed of the the critical issues of terrorism, human and food insecurity, environmental degradation, energy, economic and financial crisis, confronting the world.

She called upon the developed nations to help out the countries confronted with international terrorism and human insecurity by the countries. Recalling the Afghan-Soviet Conflict, the Speaker said that abandoning the allies halfway had proved detrimental in the post-Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan since the historic mistake awaits rectification, in fact compensation.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Pakistan had been badly affected by the bane of terrorism and extremism and the present government was trying to address the problem, however, the international community, must recognize Pakistan’s struggle and sacrifices and stand with it unconditionally, and ensure the timely fulfillment of their financial and technical commitments.

The Speaker said that democracy and development were interdependent phenomena. She said that United Nations should play its role assertively in promoting and protecting fragile democracies in the developing world. She said that at a time when a UN Reforms Programme is underway, practical steps should be included to block any attempts to derail democracies anywhere in the world.

She also called for concerted and unified approach at international level to address the plight of the marginalized sections of the society, especially women, children and the minorities could be addressed. Dr. Fehmida Mirza reiterated for supporting the systems that make global accountability possible, decreasing the international development gap between nations and bringing national and international best practices on democratic accountability in line with each other for the common good of all.

Islamabad, July 21, 2010 Democracy Imperative for Addressing the Problems Confronting World Peace and Stability. UN to Assert its Role to Protect Democracies in the Developing World: Says NA Speaker

DEMOCRACY IMPERATIVE FOR ADDRESSING THE PROBLEMS CONFRONTING WORLD PEACE AND STABILITY. UN TO ASSERT ITS ROLE TO PROTECT DEMOCRACIES IN THE DEVELOPING WORLD: SAYS NA SPEAKER

Islamabad July 21, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that democracy is imperative to address the problems confronting world peace and stability. She called upon the major players in the world to support democratic process in the developing world. She said this while addressing 3rd World Speakers’ Conference today at Geneva according to a message received from Geneva, Switzerland.

She said that presently the world was confronting the critical issues of terrorism, human and food insecurity, environmental degradation, energy, economic and financial crisis. She said that these crises have highlighted the importance of democratic accountability at the global level.

She stressed the need to help out the countries confronted with international terrorism and human insecurity by the countries who have contributed to the overall international environment of insecurity. Recalling the Afghan-Soviet Conflict, the Speaker said that abandoning the allies halfway had proved detrimental in the post-Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan since the historic mistake awaits rectification, in fact compensation.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Pakistan had been badly affected by the bane of terrorism and extremism and the present government was trying to address the problem, however, the international community, must recognise Pakistan’s struggle and sacrifices and stand with it unconditionally, and ensure the timely fulfilment of their financial and technical commitments.

The Speaker said that democracy and development were interdependent phenomena. She said that United Nations should play its role assertively in promoting and protecting fragile democracies in the developing world. She said that at a time when a UN Reforms Programme is underway, practical steps should be included to block any attempts to derail democracies anywhere in the world. She lauded the stance taken by the IPU condemning the usurpation of political power and the persecution of elected representatives, must be adhered by those world powers, which are often seen as supporting dictatorships. She welcomed the inclusion of the IPU in the UN as Observer giving it a larger role to the regional and international parliamentary organisations for effective representation of the will of the parliaments in United Nations.

She said that through a concerted and unified approach at international level the plight of the marginalised sections of the society, especially women, children and the minorities could be addressed. Dr. Fehmida Mirza reiterated for supporting the systems that make global accountability possible, decreasing the international development gap between nations and bringing national and international best practices on democratic accountability in line with each other for the common good of all.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza also met Mr. Wu Bangguo, Chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress (NPC) and Mr. Hassan Al Jishi, Speaker of the National Assembly of Bahrain on the sidelines of the Conference. The Speakers discussed issues of mutual interests and agreed to enhance parliamentary ties and cooperation between their respective parliaments.

Islamabad, July 20, 2010 Dr. Fehmida Mirza Calls for Enhanced Relations with Japan and Belarus

DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA CALLS FOR ENHANCED RELATIONS WITH JAPAN AND BELARUS

Islamabad July 20, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has called for greater interaction and people-to-people contact with Japan and Belarus. She stressed the need for new synergies of parliamentary cooperation between Pakistan, Japan and Belarus. She said this in her separate meetings with Mr. Takahiro Yokomichi, Speaker of the House of Representatives of Japan and Mr. Anatoly Rubinov, Chairman of the Council of the Republic of Belarus on the sidelines of the 3rd World Speakers’ Conference, according to a message received from Geneva.

In her meeting with the Japanese Speaker, Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Japan and Pakistan does not only share the same continent but also the same values of democracy and human freedom. She said that Pakistan values its relations with Japan and wants to further strengthen them. She said that Pakistani Parliament strongly desires to enhance parliamentary relations between parliaments of both the friendly countries. She expressed gratitude for Japanese support to the Friends of Democratic Process and sought the early fulfillment of further commitment of support.

Reciprocating good gesture of his Pakistani counterpart, the Japanese Speaker said that Japan also considers Pakistan its closest friend and economic partner. He assured Madam Speaker that Japan had and would support Pakistan in future to deal with crisis confronting its progress and prosperity. He agreed for enhancing parliamentary ties between both the parliaments.

During her meeting with Mr. Anatoly Rubinov, Chairman of the Council of the Republic of Belarus, Madam Speaker called for invigorate parliamentary relations between parliaments of both the countries. She called for greater interaction between business communities of both the countries to tap the immense economic potential especially in the trade, agriculture and manufacturing sectors.

Mr. Anatoly Rubinov agreed with Madam Speaker and said that Belarusian Parliament would be delighted to enhance its relations with Pakistani Parliament so that understanding and cooperation between both the countries could be further pursued. He assured Madam Speaker that he would take up the issue with the concerned quarters so that areas of bilateral cooperation could be explored.

Islamabad, July 17, 2010 Dr. Fehmida Mirza calls for Global Plan of Action to deal with Child Mortality and Maternal Health

DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA CALLS FOR GLOBAL PLAN OF ACTION TO DEAL WITH CHILD MORTALITY AND MATERNAL HEALTH

Islamabad July 17, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has called for formulation of coordinated global plan of action to achieve millennium development goals related to child mortality and maternal health. She said that international commitments must be honored and the assistance must not merely remain restricted to debt servicing and emergency aid during natural or man-made crisis. She said this in her address to 6th Women Speakers Conference being held in Bern, according to message received from Bern, Switzerland.

Addressing the plenary session of the Speakers Conference, Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that the international community should join hands and devise a well coordinated strategy to deal with the child mortality and Maternal Health issues. She said that these issues concerns and affects women and children beyond geographical boundaries and irrespective of their economic status. She stressed for effective resource mobilization and allocation at the national and international levels and analyzing the existing political will to meet the targets set by the Millennium Development Goals.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza pointed out that the developing world was forced divert its meager resources to more immediate security concerns. She said that developing nations must not be left alone to deal with the fall-outs of international conflicts. The Speaker said that Pakistan’s efforts in meeting the MDG targets have become more daunting in wake of our continued fight against global terrorism. She said that the sudden melt-down in the global economy and sharp rise in the oil and food prices has further aggravated the situation and with the international commitments coming half-way, the budgetary allocations on health, education and women development remain much less than desired.

She said that despite numerous problems, democracy in Pakistan has moved forward, though at a slow pace, however, all the sectors including health sector has shown significant improvement. She said that the Maternal and infant mortality rates have declined and significant reduction has been achieved in the proportion of children under five who suffer from diarrhoea and other ailments. She said that 120,000 rural and low-income group women have been trained as skilled health workers for providing door to door reproductive and child healthcare, especially at the village level. This dynamic programme was initiated by Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and it is today regarded as one of world’s largest and most successful health outreach networks, she added. Pointing out the some of the critical issues, the Speaker said that female literacy and population control were the issues which have a binary impact on the overall development of any nation. She said that poverty and unequal access to schooling perpetuate early marriages and pregnancies, which not only jeopardize the health of girls but also place rising burden on available resources. She stressed the need for enhancing female literacy rate for improving maternal and child health. Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Parliament of Pakistan has made history by reviving the constitution in its in its true democratic spirit through recent constitutional amendments. She said that “education for all” have been made a fundamental right, making it a State obligation for the first time.

The Speaker said that an all-party Women’s Parliamentary Caucus under her patronage in National Assembly of Pakistan has been formed which had made enormous contribution to the empowerment of women in Pakistan. She said that the National Convention of Women Parliamentarians on “Peace, Security and Reconciliation” was a milestone which enabling women legislators from SAARC region, all provincial and federal women legislators to gather on one platform and seek a meaningful role in peace, security and reconciliation efforts in Pakistan and beyond. The Convention adopted a strong Declaration, which provides a roadmap for bringing women and children issues into focus through legislation, parliamentary oversight and redistribution of resources, she said.

Islamabad, July 14, 2010 Dr. Fehmida Mirza to lead Parliamentary Delegation to Participate in 6th Annual Meeting of Women Speakers and 3rd World Conference of Speakers of Parliament held in Switzerland

DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA TO LEAD PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION TO PARTICIPATE IN 6TH ANNUAL MEETING OF WOMEN SPEAKERS AND 3RD WORLD CONFERENCE OF SPEAKERS OF PARLIAMENT HELD IN SWITZERLAND

Islamabad July 14, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker, National Assembly has proceeded today to Switzerland alongwith a 4-member parliamentary delegation to attend the 6th Annual meeting of Women Speakers and 3rd World Conference of Speakers of Parliament being held from 16-17 July and 19-21 July 2010 in Bern and Geneva, Switzerland, respectively.

The 6th Annual meeting of Women Speaker of Parliament is a joint initiative of Swiss Parliament and Inter Parliamentary Union (IPU). The meeting of Women Speakers of Parliament to be held in Bern would deliberate upon and devise joint strategy for taking practical measures to improve maternal, child and neo-natal health care nationally as well as internationally by gearing up common cooperation between and among nations.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza, will also attend the 3rd World Conference of Speakers of Parliaments to be held in Geneva and deliver a keynote address. The said global summit is focusing on democracy, the role of Legislative Institutions and their relationship with the United Nations. The broad theme of the 2010 conference is “Parliaments in a world of crises: securing global democratic accountability for common good”.

The delegation accompanying the Speaker comprises, MNAs Begum Ishrat Ashraf, Ms. Bushra Gohar, Syed Amir Ali Shah and Sardar Bahadur Ahmed Khan Sihar.

Islamabad, July 10, 2010 NA Speaker Urges for Adoption of an Integrated Approach for Slowing Population Growth

NA SPEAKER URGES FOR ADOPTION OF AN INTEGRATED APPROACH FOR SLOWING POPULATION GROWTH

Islamabad July 10, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that rapid growth in the country nullified development gains and it was imperative to adopt an integrated approach to slowdown the population growth. She said that due to scarce resources and present economic crisis, population explosion could result in a catastrophe. She said this in her message on the world population day being commemorated under the auspices of United Nations throughout the globe on July 11.

She said that this day highlights the fragile relationship between human beings and earth where massive growth in population has resulted in dangerous depletion of resources, deforestation, pollution and emissions of carbon dioxide to unprecedented levels, altering the global climate. She said that an integrated approach to reducing poverty, slowing population growth, and protecting the environment was imperative for achieving the desired objectives.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza stressed the need for empowering and including women in the decision making for achieving the goals of universal access to education, reproductive health care and family planning. She said that women make up more than half of the world's population, yet they are often denied the right to learn, to own or inherit land, and to control their own fertility. She was confident that by enhancing opportunities for women would enable them to make informed choices about family size -- and to break the vicious cycle of poverty and environmental degradation. The Speaker said that let us all, without delay, begin to tread more lightly on the earth, and take steps towards better use of its resources. She said that the world's population has increased manifold, therefore, we must stabilize our numbers, and equally important, we must stabilize use of resources and ensure sustainable development for all.

The Speaker said that the present economic crisis in the country could be resolved through collective efforts by health experts, community leaders, politicians and religious leaders with the special cooperation of masses. She said that awareness and advocacy could be instrumental in sensitizing the masses about the population issues, including the health of mothers and children.

Islamabad, July 8, 2010 Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah Becon of Light for the Pakistani Women: Says NA Speaker

MOHTARMA FATIMA JINNAH BECON OF LIGHT FOR THE PAKISTANI WOMEN: SAYS NA SPEAKER

Islamabad July 8, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that the personality of Mohtarama Fatima Jinnah was a personification of a candid struggle that gives today's women a lesson to remain steadfast on principles of modernity and progressivism with courage and wisdom. The Speaker said this in her message on the 43rd death anniversary of the Madar-e-Millat Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah being commemorated on July 9.

Eulogizing the services of Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah, the Speaker said that Mohtarma was an active political figure in the movement for independence and was the primary organizer of the All India Muslim Women Students Federation. She said that Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah actively participated in national politics after the creation of Pakistan and death of her brother and pursued her mission for the welfare of people till she breathed her last.

The Speaker said that Fatima Jinnah aggressively worked for women empowerment and was a role model not only for Pakistani women but also the Muslim women of South Asia. She said that prominent political leaders like, Begum Rana Liaqat Ali, Begum Nushrat Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto worked for the welfare of women in the country by following the foot-steps of Madar-e-Millat.

She called upon the women to follow the footsteps of Madar-e-Millat and contribute in making Pakistan the modern, moderate and truly Islamic welfare that Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and his sister had envisioned.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza prayed to Allah almighty to rest the soul of Mohtarma Fatima Jinnah in eternal peace.

Islamabad, June 29, 2010 NA Speaker Chairs Meeting of the PIPS Board of Governors

NA SPEAKER CHAIRS MEETING OF THE PIPS BOARD OF GOVERNORS

Islamabad the June 29, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly chaired a meeting of the Board of Governors of Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services (PIPS) in Parliament House, today.

The Board of Governors discussed and adopted the report of its Sub-Committee on “Accounting Procedures of PIPS”. The Members appreciated the efforts of Senator Ishaq Dar, Convener of Sub-Committee for devising accounting procedures for the PIPS in line with the governments accounting standards.

The Board of Governors, while taking up the report of other Sub-Committee on “Rules of Recruitment, Appointment and Organizational structure of PIPS” decided to solicit views of the Provincial Assemblies before they are formally adopted and implemented.

The Executive Director (PIPS) briefed the Board of Governors about training activities at PIPS interim facility till date. He said that a Trainer Training Program, pre-budget workshops for Parliamentarians and Parliamentary Press Reporters, Parliamentary Office Management Training for Committee Staff and Advance Training on Legislative Research Courses were successfully conducted which would help the Parliamentarians, Parliamentary Staff and Reports to enhance their capacities. He said that renowned intellectuals, academicians and professionals were invited to impart training and lectures.

The Board of Governors also expressed its satisfaction on the pace of construction of the work at PIPS Building. The Speaker said that the construction work would hopefully be completed within the stipulated time. She termed the establishment of PIPS, a feather in the cap of the incumbent parliament.

Madam Speaker said that PIPS would enhance the capacity of the parliamentarians and parliamentary staff to deal with the intricacies of the legislative work. She asked the Executive Director (PIPS) to devise intensive training schedule for Legislators and Staff in future.

Following Members attended the meeting Mir Jan Muhammad Jamali, Deputy Chairman, Senate; Rana Muhammad Iqbal Khan, Speaker Provincial Assembly of Punjab; Senators Muhammad Azam Khan Swati; Dr. Khatu Mal Jeewan; MNAs Mrs. Yasmeen Rehman; Mr. Aftab Shaban Mirani; Chaudhary Muhammad Barjees Tahir; Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada; Mr. S. A. Iqbal Quadri; Mr. Pervaiz Khan Advocate: Mr. Zafar Beg Bhittani; Secretaries of Senate and National Assembly and Executive Director (PIPS).

Islamabad, June 25, 2010 British Foreign Secretary Calls on Speaker National Assembly

BRITISH FOREIGN SECRETARY CALLS ON SPEAKER NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

Islamabad June 25, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker, National Assembly and Mr. William Hague, British Foreign Secretary have agreed for intensifying existing bilateral and parliamentary ties between both the countries. This was agreed in a meeting between both the leaders which was held in Parliament House this morning.

Referring to the historic ties between both the countries, Dr. Fehmida Mirza, expressed her desire to further cement the relations with UK through enhancing people to people contact and exchange of parliamentary delegations. She said that Pakistan values British support for social sector development, education, defence and economy. She said that Britain and Pakistan not only share the history but also same values of democracy and human freedom.

The Speaker said that visit of Mr. William Hague to Pakistan after assuming the office of Foreign Secretary had provide an opportunity to open new vistas of bilateral cooperation and strategic partnership between both the countries. She stressed for Britain’s support for access to Pakistani exporters in European markets.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza informed the British Foreign Secretary that democracy in Pakistan has taken roots and parliament was actively engaged in welfare of the masses. She apprised him about the establishment of Women Parliamentary Caucus in National Assembly and contribution of Women Legislators for Women Empowerment and emancipation.

Mr. William Hague while talking to the Speaker, said that Britain ranks Pakistan as one of its important strategic partner and would extend its unflinching support for economic and social sector development in Pakistan. He said that British government believes in democracy and would support Pakistan for strengthening of democratic institutions. He agreed for intensification of existing relations between both the countries. He assured his country vigorous support for market access to Pakistani products in EU markets.

Appreciating Pakistan’s contribution in war against terror, the British Foreign Secretary said that Britain would support Pakistan to address the menace of extremism and terrorism confronting peace and stability of the country and the region.

Islamabad, June 20, 2010 NA Speaker Call upon all the Political Forces to Rise above Party Lines to Work for the Democracy and Elimination of Terrorism and Extremism

NA SPEAKER CALL UPON ALL THE POLITICAL FORCES TO RISE ABOVE PARTY LINES TO WORK FOR THE DEMOCRACY AND ELIMINATION OF TERRORISM AND EXTREMISM

Islamabad June 20, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker, National Assembly has said that Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was a visionary and a stateswoman and always aspired for a world, free from exploitation and discrimination between privileged and underprivileged, men and women. She fought for the downtrodden and oppressed and longed for a forward-looking Pakistan, where women were not subjected to humiliation, torture and treated with respect as equal partners to progress and prosperity. She said this in her message on the 57th Birth Anniversary of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto being observed tomorrow.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Shaheed Mohtarma had a towering and multi-dimensional personality and was bacon of light for the downtrodden, oppressed and marginalized segments of the society. He said that Mohtarma had the courage to challenge the worst dictatorship of the times when compared with other contemporary politicians. She had to pass through the whirlpool of vendetta by a repressive regime in shape of brutal assassination of her father Qaid-e-Awam Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, the murders of her tow brothers, the hardships of her mother, her own and her husbands imprisonments, physical and mental torture, nevertheless, she bravely faced whatever came in her way, continued to challenge the dictatorships and remained steadfast in her commitment to the people and democracy.

Madam Speaker said that today as the nation finds itself encircled by challenges, threats and pressures, never witnessed ever before, and while we all put in our respective efforts to steer the country out of the present quagmire, we need Mohtarma Benazir now more than ever before. She said that Mohtarma strongly believed in solidarity of Federation and provincial autonomy. She said that the people of the four provinces had their confidence in her and whenever the nation was given a relatively free chance to choose, her political party returned successful from all the four federating units. She said that Pakistan witnessed a phenomenal development in all sectors of economy and made the country impregnable during her both tenures as Prime Minister.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Mohtarma worked diligently as twice-elected Prime Minister towards the well-defined goals of women empowerment. Shaheed Mohtarma brought women to the main-stream by appointing them as judges of the superior courts, opened first women bank, ensured state protection for women by coming up to with the idea of separate women police stations, dedicated funds and schemes in shape of women health workers to bring sea-change in the plight of misery and disease stricken women and last but surely least, encouraged women at every tier of political hierarchy.

Madam Speaker said that Mohtarma strongly believed in reconciliation and forbearance she was always forgiving and tried to look for similarities rather than to seek difference and believed in building bridges and not living in isolation, both on the international level as well as on the national front.

Madam Speaker called upon all the political forces to rise above party lines to work for the democracy, say no to extremism, militancy and violence and rebuild Pakistan as Mohtarma dreamed, aspired and worked for. She termed it the befitting way of paying homage and remembrance Benazir Bhutto deserves as a cherished off-spring of the Indus, a gifted soul of Pakistan, the befitting daughter of the East and the visionary of our times. May Allah Rest the soul of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto in eternal peace (Ameen), Madam Speaker prayed.

Islamabad, June 17, 2010 NA Speaker Stresses Need to Comabt Desertification and Drought

NA SPEAKER STRESSES NEED TO COMBAT DESERTIFICATION AND DROUGHT

Islamabad June 17, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has stressed the need for coordinated and stringent measures for combating the looming threat of desertification and drought. She called for immediate measures for saving the livelihoods, well-being and development of large number of population around the world. Dr. Fehmida Mirza said this in her message on the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought, being observed today throughout the world under the auspices of United Nation.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that desertification and land degradation not only affect the earth’s surface but also threatens the livelihoods, well-being and development of a large number of population around the world. Consequent to that, desertification also induces migration of the population, drought, famine and deepens poverty. She said that if the desertification goes unchecked, it would further deepen the miseries of the masses in the coming years.

She said that this day serves us an opportunity to highlight the growing threat to national and regional stability posed by desertification. She said that the climate changes was a contributing factor, but not the only one rendering nearly one third of the world’s cropland to become unproductive and been abandoned in the previous years. She stressed for water conservation, reconsideration of our agricultural practices and afforestation. She said that growing demand for animal feed and biofuels will put further pressure on these scarce resources if not managed sustainabally. The Speaker said that current global consumption and production patterns were unsustainable, which would consequently aggravate global food crises, desertification, land degradation and periods of drought. She feared that as usual, the poor will be the first victims of the last to recover.

The Speaker said that for sustainable Development, desertification and land degradation were global problems that require a global response, therefore, world leaders should think for a comprehensive strategy to slow down global warming. In particular, it must provide adequate and predictable financing to support improved land management, more efficient water use and sustainable agriculture.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza called upon the federal and provincial agriculture departments to raise awareness amongst the farming community to conserve water and sagaciously use it reconsider agriculture practices and plant more trees to avert the desertification.

Islamabad, June 17, 2010 Training and Capacity Building of Legislatures a Must for Better Legislation and Strengthening Democratic Institution: Sayes NA Speaker

TRAINING AND CAPACITY BUILDING OF LEGISLATURES A MUST FOR BETTER LEGISLATION AND STRENGTHENING DEMOCRATIC INSTITUTION: SAYS NA SPEAKER

Islamabad June 17, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that the Parliamentarians represent will of the people of Pakistan and they needed a strong support base for research and capacity building for better legislation and strengthening of democratic institutions. The Speaker National Assembly who is also the President of Board of Governor of Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services, PIPS said this while addressing the launching ceremony of construction of PIPS Building at Islamabad, today.

Madam Speaker said that after the restoration of democracy in Pakistan, the democratic system in Pakistan has emerged stronger and efficient in dealing with the intricate issues of the State. She said that during the last two years, the Parliament has achieved some key milestones including historic passage of the 18th Constitutional Amendment besides, unanimous adoption of more than two dozen bills, including the Finance and the Harassment of Women at Workplace Bills, formation of Standing Committees, many of which are being headed for the first time by the Opposition Members, harnessing a joint national stance on fight against terrorism and formation of multi-party Women’s Parliamentary Caucus.

She said that these achievements indicated that struggle for parliamentary supremacy in Pakistan has come a long way. However, the ensuing challenges demanded a more pro-active Parliament, well-equipped with latest technology to cater the needs of the changing times. She said that successive derailing of democracy has badly hampered the growth and development of Institutions in the country.

The Madam Speaker said that Parliament needed better research and analysis facilities, latest equipment and training for members and staff of legislative assemblies. She said that being the Speaker of National Assembly these areas have remained her priority and various steps have taken in this regard.

While appreciating the US Government Support through USAID for strengthening the democratic institutions in Pakistan, the Speaker said that the US and Pakistan were allies in a number of key areas. She said that stronger common link between US and Pakistan is our people’s complete trust and faith in a system of government, which must be democratic in letter and spirit. She expressed her optimism that the mutual cooperation between the two counties will further strengthen in the coming times and the Parliament and the USAID will continue to work together.

She also appreciated Government of Pakistan for allocation of land to the Parliament for Construction of Building for PIPS building.

She said that establishment of Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Studies, equipped with state-of art facilities a knowledgeable faculty and a sizeable resource base indicates our common resolve to firm up the democratic foundations of Pakistan. She appreciated the endeavors of the Members of both the Houses Senate and National Assembly who initiated the Legislation for establishment of PIPS.

Madam Speaker expressed the hope that on completion, PIPS will not only strengthen the working of Parliament but will also enabled all legislative Houses in country to develop a well-trained, comprehensive crop of Parliamentary Officers. The Madam Speaker congratulated all the stakeholders and assured her full cooperation in this regard.

Later on Madam Speaker unveiled the Rendering of PIPS Building and visited the construction site. The Architecture of PIPS Building gave a detail presentation to Madam Speaker about the construction plan of the building.

Jan Muhammad Jamali, Deputy Chairman Senate and Vice President of Board of Governors of PIPS Charge d Affairs Gerald Feierstein and Executive Director PIPS, Khan Ahmed Goraya also address the ceremony.

Islamabad, June 17, 2010 Text of Speech of Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly delivered at ground breaking ceremony of the Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Studies (PIPS) on June 17, 2010

TEXT OF SPEECH OF DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA, SPEAKER NATIONAL ASSEMBLY DELIVERED AT GROUND BREAKING CEREMONY OF THE PAKISTAN INSTITUTE FOR PARLIAMENTARY STUDIES (PIPS) ON JUNE 17, 2010

Mr. Jan Muhammad Jamali, Deputy Chairman Senate of Pakistan,
Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker, National Assembly
Honourable Parliamentarians
Executive Director PIPS
Gerald Feierstein, Charge d Affairs US Embassy
Secretaries of the Senate and the National Assembly
and distinguish guests Ladies and Gentlemen

And a very good morning to you all!

I am pleased to be here at the groundbreaking ceremony of the Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Studies. I avail this opportunity to congratulate all of you on taking yet another historical step towards the parliamentary Strengthening process in our country.

Ladies and Gentlemen!

Ever-since the return of democracy, the democratic system in Pakistan has emerged stronger and efficient in dealing with the intricate issues of the State. During the last two years, we have witnessed some key milestones, achieved by the present Parliament. These include:

• The historic passage of the 18th Constitutional Amendment;

• Unanimous adoption of more than two dozen bills, including the Finance Bill and the Harassment at Workplace Bill;

• Formation of all-inclusive Standing Committees, many of which are being headed for the first time by the Opposition Members;

• Harnessing a joint national stance on our fight against terrorism;

• And the creation of an across-board, bi-partisan Women’s Parliamentary Caucus.

These unprecedented achievements indicate that struggle for parliamentary supremacy in Pakistan has come a long way. However, the ensuing challenges demand a more pro-active Parliament, which is well-equipped in terms of latest technology to cater to the needs of the changing times. The successive derailing of democracy throughout the course of our national history has badly hampered the growth and development of our Institutions.

Like other, the Parliament is also resource-constraint and needs better research and analysis facilities, latest equipment and trainings for members and staff.

As a Speaker, these areas have remained my priority and our various endeavors have gained strength from the valuable support of our friends, including the US Government, through the USAID.

Pakistan and the US have remained, and continue to be allies in a number of key areas. Yet the strongest common link between our two nations is our people’s complete trust and faith in a system of government, which must be democratic in letter and in spirit.

In pursuit of these ideals, the establishment of PIPS has come out as a fine example.

I am also glad to note that the USAID has been active in numerous other joint projects. In this regard, the USAID support in organizing the recently-held National Convention of Women Parliamentarians has been instrumental in the overwhelming success of this, one-of-its-kind, event.

I hope that this mutual cooperation will further strengthen in the coming times and the Parliament and the USAID will continue to work together.

Let me also thank for the generous backing of the Government of Pakistan (through the CDA) that allocated this precious land to the Parliament. This is deeply appreciated. It is, in fact, a manifestation of the present Government’s resolve to enable the Parliament play its role as a sovereign, independent and efficient law-making body.

Ladies and Gentlemen!

The establishment of Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Studies, equipped with state-of- the art facilities a knowledgeable faculty and a sizeable resource base indicates our common resolve to firm up the democratic foundations of Pakistan. It was in this spirit that the Members of our two Houses dedicatedly worked to draft, introduce and then pass the necessary PIPS legislation in November 2008. This is one of the few Private Members’ Bills, which received unanimous support of the Parliament and became an official Act in December, 2008.

This display of “consensus for a cause” reflects the will and the vision of the National Assembly, as well as Senate, to work in unity for the development of the institution and progress of the country.

This Institute has also been strengthened with the representation from all the four provinces in its Board of Governors. This has not only given PIPS a national colour but has also broadened its scope.

I am sure that on completion, PIPS will not only strengthen the working of national Parliament but will also enable all legislative houses of the country to develop a well-trained, comprehensive crop of Parliamentary Officers, similar to the lines of the DMG or Foreign Services Groups.

Here, I may also caution the provincial legislatures that in the coming days, their responsibilities will increase many-folds. After the passage of the 18th Amendment, not only have the provinces gained their long desired provincial autonomy, but the expectations from their elected representatives have also increased. Their performance, thus, will be under renewed public scrutiny, as more technical know-how of issues will be required from them.

As the Chairperson of the PIPS, I assure our complete and continued support to all Provincial Assemblies and look forward to their whole-hearted participation in PIPS future endeavors.

Ladies and Gentlemen!

As I conclude, I once again congratulate all stake-holders and pray for the continued success and progress of PIPS. I also hope that this building will be completed in time, enabling its faculty to move and start its functions sooner-----than later.

Thank you very much.

Pakistan Paindabad.

Islamabad, June 16, 2010 British High Commissioner Call on the Madam Speaker NA

BRITISH HIGH COMMISSIONER CALL ON THE MADAM SPEAKER NA

Islamabad June 16, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza Speaker, National Assembly has said that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with United Kingdom and both the countries have commonalities of views on regional and global issues. She said this while talking to Mr. Adam Thomson, British High Commissioner in Islamabad, who called on Madam Speaker in the Parliament House, today.

The Madam Speaker said that Pakistan believed in peace and stability in the region because development and prosperity of the countries in the region is depended on it. She said that Pakistan wanted good relations with its neighbours through more communication and enhanced exchange of Parliamentary delegations and talks. Madam Speaker said that Pakistan is committed to fight against terrorism and extremism. She said that illiteracy, poverty and unemployment were the main causes of extremism and terrorism. She viewed that bane of extremism and terrorism could be curbed by its eliminating the root cause. She said that by establishing educational institution, creation of job opportunities and generation of economic activities in the FATA will bring down extremism from the area. She also said that such opportunities will also help in uplift of women folk in FATA.

The Madam Speaker said that the present democratic set up was facing variety of challenges that will be overcome with the help of the masses and support of friendly countries like Briton. She said that during last two years the Parliament had enacted a record number of legislation including the passage of historic 18th Constitutional amendment which restored the 1973 Constitution in its true spirit. The Speaker also apprised the High Commissioner about the formation of Women Parliamentary Caucus. She said that a Women Parliamentary Caucus has been formed in the Parliament under her supervision and women parliamentarians of both houses were its members. The Caucus was working for empowerment and welfare of women folk in the country. She said that the members of the Caucus have initiated a number Bills in the Parliament for protection of women rights and other problems being faced by them including Women Protection Bill 2010, besides role of Women Parliamentarians for peace building. Madam Speaker said that all the legislation made in the Parliament was passed unanimously. The Madam Speaker stressed the need for enhanced interaction between the Parliamentarians of both the countries and activation of friendship groups enabling both the Parliaments to strengthen bilateral relations besides their closely working in CPA & IPU. She appreciated the contribution of British Government for the restoration of democracy in Pakistan.

Mr. Adam Thomson, High Commissioner said that Pakistan was an important country and was playing a vital role in war against terrorism and extremism. He said that Pakistan was also a stabilizing factor in the region for the region’s progress and prosperity. He said that Pakistani Community in UK was playing important role in Britain’s prosperity and economic development. He appreciated them as the law abiding and hard working citizens. UK High Commissioner extended assistance for enhancing the capabilities of Standing Committees of the National Assembly of Pakistan. He also congratulated the Madam Speaker on the passage of 18th Constitutional Amendment, unanimously and holding successful Women Parliamentarians Convention.

Islamabad, June 14, 2010 Speaker NA Dr. Fehmida Mirza has Urged the Nation to Donate Blood to Save the Lives of their Fellow Citizens Who Needed Blood Transfusion

SPEAKER NA DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA HAS URGED THE NATION TO DONATE BLOOD TO SAVE THE LIVES OF THEIR FELLOW CITIZENS WHO NEEDED BLOOD TRANSFUSION

Islamabad June, 14 2010: Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza has urged the nation to donate blood to save the lives of their fellow citizens who needed blood transfusion. She said this in her message on World Blood Donor Day being commemorated across the world today.

Speaker National Assembly said that donating blood to save the other human lives is a noble cause. She further said that according to modern medical research a healthy person could donate blood annually three to four times without any adverse impact on health. She said that this year government has decided to combine the World Blood Donor Day activities with the 57th birth anniversary of Muhaterma Benazair Bhutto Shaheed. Speaker said that Muhaterma Benazair Bhutto Shaheed has scarified her life for the nation, the nation will acknowledge her supreme sacrifice by donating blood in her memory. She said that World Blood Donor Day was celebrated to create awareness among masses for safe blood transfusion and to pay homage to those who donate blood voluntarily to save the other lives.

She called upon the youth to take active part in week long blood donation campaign started from World Blood Donor Day and conclude on the birth anniversary of Muhaterma Benazair Bhutto Shaheed which will celebrate on 21st June 2010. She appreciated the initiatives taken by M/o Health for safe blood transfusion and establishing camps for this purpose. She also appreciated the contributions on National AIDS Control Program for safe blood transfusion in Pakistan. She also thanked all the blood donors who donate blood voluntarily for their generosity.

Islamabad, June 10, 2010 General Assembly of Women Parliamentary Caucus Agrees for Legislation for Protection of Rights of Home-Based Women Workers

GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF WOMEN PARLIAMENTARY CAUCUS AGREES FOR LEGISLATION FOR PROTECTION OF RIGHTS OF HOME-BASED WOMEN WORKERS

Islamabad June 10, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly chaired a meeting of the General Assembly of the Women Parliamentary Caucus in Parliament House, Islamabad today.

The General Assembly was given a detailed briefing on the proposed legislation on home-based women workers by the KARKUN, a network of NGOs working for the women emancipation and empowerment. Apprising the General Assembly, the Representatives of KARKUN, informed that the proposed legislation aims at providing social security mechanism and protection of their rights. The Representative informed that home-based workers comprise a significant number of women who are striving for making their families economically sustainable by making handicrafts, household items, leather goods and apparels, however, they are deprived of their legitimate remuneration for the job, done besides were vulnerable to violence, harassment and other social issues. The Representative further added that their contribution in national economy needs to be recognized and their rights protected.

The Members of Caucus appreciated the legislation proposed by the KARKUN and said that the home-based workers were subjected to chronic poverty and other social problems therefore, immediate attention should be paid to initiate their problems by amending existing laws besides enacting new laws. They were also of the view that the informal sector in which such workers were working needs to be regularized and mainstreamed.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza, while acknowledging the necessity to the enactment of laws for home-based women workers said that their rights needed to be protected, made economically strong and socially protected. She said that a census of women home-based workers throughout the country needs to be carried out to access the exact number of such workers. She said that the bill in question would be discussed in General Assembly of WPC so that the members could give their input.

Later, the General Assembly appreciated Dr. Fehmida Mirza for her initiative of holding Women Parliamentary Convention. The members were of the view that convention provided an opportunity for women MPs from across the country and SAARC region to forge a common strategy for women rights protection.

The General Assembly was attended by members of the WPC from Senate and National Assembly

Islamabad, June 10, 2010 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condole the Death of Mother of Sardar Mehtab Ahmed Khan Abbasi, MNA and Uncle of Mr. Ijaz Ahmed Jakhrani, Federal Minister for Sports

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDOLE THE DEATHS OF MOTHER OF SARDAR MEHTAB AHMED KHAN ABBASI, MNA AND UNCLE OF MR. IJAZ AHMED JAKHRANI, FEDERAL MINISTER FOR SPORTS

Islamabad; June 10, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly, have expressed sorrow and grief over the sad demise of the Mother of Sardar Mehtab Ahmed Khan Abbasi, MNA.

In their separate condolence messages to Sardar Mehtab Ahmed Khan Abbasi, MNA, the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker said that they were shocked to learn the sad news about the passing away of his mother. They prayed to Almighty Allah to rest departed soul in eternal peace and grant the courage to bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss with equanimity.

The Speaker and Deputy Spaker have also condoled the death of uncle of Federal Minister for Sports Mr. Ijaz Ahmed Khan Jakhrani and expressed their heart felt grief and sorrow over the sad demise. They prayed Almighty Allah to shower his blessing on departed soul and grant fortitude and patience to bereaved family to bear the this loss.

Islamabad, June 7, 2010 Women Parliamentarians Convention created a Network of Women MPs for Raising United Voice for Peace and Stability in the Region: NA Speaker

WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS CONVENTION CREATED A NETWORK OF WOMEN MPs FOR RAISING UNITED VOICE FOR PEACE AND STABILITY IN THE REGION: SAYS NA SPEAKER

Islamabad June 7, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker/Patron chaired a meeting of the Working Council of the Women Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) in Parliament House, today.

The Working Council expressed its satisfaction over the recently held convention of Women Parliamentarians, widely attended by Women Parliamentarians from Senate, National Assembly, all Provincial Assemblies, Legislative Assemblies of AJK and Gilgit-Baltistan, Civil Society and Media. The Working Council unanimously resolved that the convention provided an opportunity to Women Parliamentarians to forge unity to build collective vision for women emancipation and gender equality. The Speaker, National Assembly thanked provincial legislator for their active participation in the Convention. She termed it a giant leap in pursuance of the commitment of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto towards women folk. She was of the view that the Women MPs actively participated in the working sessions during the convention which formed the basis of the landmark resolution adopted at the conclusion of the convention.

The Working Council thanked the Provincial Assemblies and SAARC Countries for sending their delegation in the convention. It was of the view that the convention will help raise strong and united voice for peace and stability in the region and create a network of Women Parliamentarians with common agenda for women empowerment and their participation at all levels of decision making. The convention will further a meaningful partnership with society and media.

The Working Council later formed a Committee of the WPC to monitor the educational policy. The Committee has been mandated to monitor the implementation of the educational policy and suggest measures to remove the impendent in its implementation.

The meeting of the Working Council was attended by Ms. Nafeesa Shah, Begum Nuzhat Sadiq, Ms. Bushra Gohar, Ms Saima Akhtar Barhwana, Begum Ishrat Ashraf, Mrs. Khushbakht Shujaat and Dr. Doniya Aziz.

Islamabad, June 6, 2010 NA Speaker Calls for proper arrangements to deal with the impending cyclone in costal areas of Sindh

NA SPEAKER CALLS FOR PROPER ARRANGEMENTS TO DEAL WITH THE IMPENDING CYCLONE IN COSTAL AREAS OF SINDH

Islamabad June 6, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has asked the National Disaster Management Authority and District Administrations of the costal districts of Badin and Thatta to ensure proper arrangements in the Relief Camps for the people evacuated from costal belt due to Cyclone “Phet”.

She said that the costal areas of Badin and Thatta were the most vulnerable to the impending cyclone which was likely to inflict grave impact on the people, livestock, orchards and crops. She said that people should be timely shifted to safer areas to minimize the losses likely to be caused by the cyclone and expected rain flood and later rehabilitated and compensated for their losses.

She said that the residents of the costal areas should be facilitated and provided food and other necessities of daily use. She said that District administration should ensure provision of medical care and sanitation since camps in such situations are more prone to contagious diseases.

The Speaker also directed the district administration to liaise with metrological departments, armed forces personnel and maritime security agency so that the loss to life and property could be minimized in case of any eventuality. She also asked them to involve philanthropic community in the government’s relief and rehabilitation efforts.

Islamabad, June 4, 2010 NA Speaker Calls for Protection of Biodiversity

NA SPEAKER CALLS FOR PROTECTION OF BIODIVERSITY

Islamabad June 4, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker, National Assembly has said that in order to preserve biodiversity and to rein in the rapidly deteriorating environment in the country, its imperative to preserve the ecology and curtail use of hydrocarbon. She also called upon the Environment Protection agencies and the environmentalists to gear up their efforts to improve the pervasive environment degradation. She said this on the occasion of World Environment Day being commemorated through out the world with the theme “Many species; one planet, one future”.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that climate change impacts the dynamics, functioning and structure of ecosystems and reduces their productivity and has adverse effects on water availability food security, human health and well being. She further said that global recognition of the environment degradation through out the world, has provided an opportunity to focus global attention on critical environment issues through a dedicated theme “Many species, one planet, one future” aiming in smoke free emission and other hazardous detrimental to the environment.

She said that by reducing the carbon emission we would be able to provide sustainability to our ecosystem besides saving energy, which could be utilized for the industrial sector enhancing its productivity. She also called upon the public to look their life through a carbon neutral lens which will help them in other ways increasing the efficiency of resource use, avoiding and reducing waste and ultimately improving overall performance.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza appreciated the efforts of the International Agencies collaborating with the Government of Pakistan for environmental protection. She said that let us recognize the need to slow the momentum of the dramatic environmental changes and pledge to do our best to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

She also called upon the governmental environmental protections agencies to take strict action against the violators of the environmental laws enacted by the legislature. She said that strict compliance of the university recognized environmental standards would ensure sustainable health environment and biodiversity for the coming generation. Speaker emphasized that media was most source important of information. She asked the media to play is due role to create awareness among the masses about the advantages of healthy environment. She also urged for more plantation to save the environment of the planet.

Islamabad, June 3, 2010 House Business Advisory Committee Meets

HOUSE BUSINESS ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETS

Islamabad June 3, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker, National Assembly chaired a meeting of the House Business Advisory Committee in the Parliament House to discuss the schedule for the 23rd Budget Session of the National Assembly, today.

After discussion and taking into account suggestions by representative of all the political parties in the National Assembly, it was decided that budget for financial year 2010-11 will be presented on 5th June, 2010 and general discussion on the budget will be initiated on 8th June which will continue till 21st June, 2010. It was decided that the Budget will be passed on 28th June, 2010.

The Committee decided that the session will be held from Tuesday to Saturday in morning expects Monday. It was also decided that the question hour will remain suspended during the Budget session.

The meeting was attended by Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah, Minister for Labour and Manpower, Syed Naveed Qamar, Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources, Mr. Qamar Zaman Kaira, Minister for Information & Broadcasting, MNAs Nawab Muhammad Yousaf Talpur, Sheikh Aftaf Ahmed, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Mrs. Tehmina Daultana, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Ch. Muhammad Barjees Tahir, Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, Mr. Ghous Bux Khan Mahar, Engineer Amir Muqam, Mr. Iqbal Muhammad Ali Khan, Mrs. Jamila Gillani and Maulana Ajmal.

Islamabad, May 30, 2010 NA Speaker for Raising Awarness against Tobacco Use in Youth and Women

NA SPEAKER FOR RAISING AWARNESS AGAINST TOBACCO USE IN YOUTH AND WOMEN

Islamabad May 30, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has stressed upon people, NGOs and government health departments to join hands to raise awareness against the use of tobacco which can cause multitude of health problems. She said this in her message on World No tobacco Day being commemorated worldwide, tomorrow.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that this day serves us an opportunity to renew our commitments to highlight health risks associated with the use of tobacco. She called upon the masses to abandon the use of tobacco to minimize risk to their health. She complimented the World Health Organization (WHO) for adopting theme “Gender and Tobacco” for World No Tobacco Day, 2010. She said that we should collectively draw attention to harmful effects of tobacco smoking and marketing to women and girls.

The Speaker said that use of tobacco is on rise in youth, women and girls. She said that tobacco use can have lethal effects on the health of women that could subsequently affect the whole household. She said that according to WHO statistics, women comprise 20% of the 1 billion smokers in the world.

She called upon the health departments, NGOs and Media to initiate aggressive media campaign to raise awareness against the tobacco use. She also asked the tobacco companies not to attempt, lure people into life time nicotine dependence.

Islamabad, May 27, 2010 Outgoing Chinese Ambassador Calls on Speaker NA

OUTGOING CHINESE AMBASSADOR CALLS ON SPEAKER NA

Islamabad May 27, 2010: Outgoing Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan H.E Luo Zhaoui paid a farewell call on Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly in Parliament House, today. Eulogizing the services of the Ambassador Luo Zhaoui for promoting Pak-China Friendship, the Speaker said that Mr. Luo Zhaoui brought the time-tested and all seasons’ friendship between two countries to new heights during his stay in Pakistan.

While talking to the Ambassador, the Speaker said that Pak-China friendship is based on principles and understanding between the two countries which has withstood the test of time. The Speaker said the relationship between Pakistan and China represents a distinctive model of coexistence of two countries with different ideologies, political systems and cultural backgrounds.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said both the countries have stood together as friends in every crisis and supported each other on international and regional forums. She called for enhancing parliamentary ties between parliaments of both the countries. She said that both China and Pakistan could enrich their experiences by enhancing exchange of parliamentary delegations. She asked the Ambassador to convey her invitation to the Chairman National People’s Congress to visit Pakistan.

The Speaker appreciated the Chinese support for Pakistan in energy sector and said that China had been a major partner for development in all sectors. She called for enhancing cooperation in agriculture, industrial, health and education sectors.

Speaking on the occasion, the Ambassador narrated historical facts of the Pak-China relations and said that these relations were durable, time tested and beyond the effects of politics and economics. He said both China and Pakistan will continue supporting each other on international and regional issues and their friendship will grow stronger with the passage of time. He congratulated Speaker on successfully convening Women Parliamentarians Convention which provided a forum for women parliamentarians to discuss and devise strategies for women empowerment. He termed his stay in Pakistan a memorable one.

Islamabad, May 25, 2010 The Inaugural Session of the National Convention for Women Parliamentarians

THE INAUGURAL SESSION OF THE NATIONAL CONVENTION FOR WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS "ROLE OF WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS IN PEACE, SECURITY AND RECONCILIATION"

Islamabad May 25, 2010: The Inaugural Session of the National Convention for Women Parliamentarians “Role of Women Parliamentarians in Peace, Security and Reconciliation” was held in Convention Center, today with Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National assembly in chair. The Prime Minster Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani was the Chief Guest. The Convention was widely attended by Women Members of the National assembly, Senate, Punjab, Sindh, Khyber-Pukhtoonkhwa, Balochistan, AJ&K, Gilgit-Balitstan Assemblies and Members of the Civil Society and women right activist.

Women Parliamentarians from SAARC Countries comprising Rosy Senanyake from Sri Lanka, Shawkat Ara Begum from Bangladesh, Ms. Narah Ranee from India, Fauzia Koofi from Afghanistan, Ms. Tshewang Lhamo from Bhutan, also participated in the convention.

In her address, Dr. Fehmida Mirza termed that the first Convention of Women Parliamentarians as a giant leap towards a meaningful participation of women leaders for peace, security and reconciliation. She said that the numerical increase in the representation of women in all sectors of life must be translated into new opportunities. She said that statistics reveals that 22% bench of the National Assembly makes up for its 60% business and for a progressive society, the principle of shared power and collective responsibility must be adopted. She said that the women parliamentarians should forge close networks at regional levels, devise joint strategies for progress and mounting collective pressures on government for accepting women participation on the peace negotiation tables and reconstruction processes. She welcomed the support of media and women right activist in achieving the goals set by this convention.

Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani, Prime Minister while addressing the august gathering said that peace and reconciliation is the legacy of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. He said that because of her vision, the government was taking on the battle for peace, stability and prosperity of the people of Pakistan against the challenges faced by women. He said that Shaheed Mohtarma had aptly said that the people of Pakistan want change—from a climate of threat to one of stability and prosperity. He lauded the efforts and assertiveness of women legislators in the legislative business in the country. Talking of the fight against extremism, he said that women are the most vulnerable victims of this conflict, therefore, he stressed for forging unity to tackle the issues confronting women. He praised the efforts of Dr. Fehmida Mirza in bringing the legislators from the region and all over the country on table to discuss and devise common strategy to ameliorate the plight of the neglected section of the society.

Earlier, Ms. Nafisa Shah, Secretary General Women Parliamentarians Caucus and Ms. Asma Jehangir, Chairperson Human Right Commission of Pakistan in their address termed this convention a new beginning. They said that the general meetings of the Caucus have acquired the informal status of Parliamentary hearings. They were confident that the collective effort of the Women parliamentarians will help raise their status and ensure their active participation in the national development.

Later, three working sessions were simultaneously held for detailed discussion on the topics “Women and Conflict Resolution”, “Women and Security” and “Effects of Conflict on Women-Plight of Internally displaced women”. The Sessions were chaired by Ms. Ghazala Gola, Minister for Women Development, Balochistan, Ms. Shehla Raza, Deputy Speaker, Sindh Assembly and Ms. Sitara Ayaz, Minister for Women Development, Khyber-Pakhtoonkhwa, respectively. The Sessions were attended by MPs from India, Afghanistan, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Members of the Senate, National Assembly, Provincial Assemblies, AJ&K and Gilgit-Baltistan. The recommendations of the working groups will be incorporated in the declaration to be presented in the Concluding Session of the convention.

Islamabad, May 24, 2010 Dinner Hosted by Speaker National Assembly in Islamabad

Islamabad, May 20, 2010 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condole the Death of Father of Dr. Doniya Aziz, MNA

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDOLE THE DEATH OF FATHER OF DR. DONIYA AZIZ, MNA

Islamabad: May 20, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan visited the residence of Dr. Doniya Aziz, Member National Assembly in Islamabad to condole the sad demise of her father who died today. The Speaker expressed her heartfelt grief and sorrow over sad demise of father of Dr. Donya Aziz. She Offered Fataha and prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage to her family to bear irreparable loss with equanimity.

Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker also condoled the passing away of father of Dr. Doniya Aziz. In his Condolence message to Dr. Doniya Aziz the Deputy Speaker said that he was shocked to learn the sad news about the passing away of her father. He prayed for solace of departed soul and courage to bereaved family to bear the loss with patient and forbearance.

Islamabad, May 19, 2010 NA Speaker Stresses for Awareness Amongst the Masses Against the Hepatitus

NA SPEAKER STRESSES FOR AWARENESS AMONGST THE MASSES AGAINST THE HEPATITUS

Islamabad May 19, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has stressed for creating awareness amongst the messes against hepatitis by engaging youth, civil society and media. She said that hepatitis was a major health challenge confronting to public. She said this in her message on the world hepatitis day being commemorated under the auspices of United Nations, across the world today.

Dr Fehmida Mirza said that hepatitis B and C were one of the major threats to the public health which could lead to cancer and other ailments. She said that we all should pledge today to make hepatitis B and C global priority so that comprehensive strategies could be adopted for tackling this threat. She said that people should be made aware of the factors responsible for its transmission. She called for safe health practices to avoid transmission to this deadly disease.

Madam Speaker said that present democratic setup has its focus on the public health and welfare. She said the hepatitis control initiatives of the Federal and Provincial governments were commendable, however, social and private sector organizations should supplement the efforts of the government. She also called upon the Media to play its role for creating awareness amongst the public against the drastic effects of the hepatitis.

Islamabad, May 18, 2010 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condemn Bomb Blast in Kolachi D.I.Khan

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDEMN BOMB BLAST IN KOLACHI D.I. KHAN

Islamabad: May 18. 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly have strongly condemned the bomb blast in Kolachi, Dera Ismail Khan and expressed grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives.

In their separate statements, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker termed it a barbaric and shameful act of terrorism. They said that the elements involved in such activities were the enemies of humanity and the country and earned bad name to Islam They said that such shameful acts could not deter the Government from its firm resolve to fight against terrorism.They were confident that the culprits involved in such activities will not be spared and will be brought to justice.

They prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the souls of martyreds in eternal peace and sympathized with bereaved families and prayed for early recovery of injured.

Islamabad, May 10, 2010 Dr. Fehmida Mirza Reiterates Pakistan's Unwavering Support to the Just Struggle of Palestinians for a Separate Homeland

DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA REITERATES PAKISTAN’S UNWAVERING SUPPORT TO THE JUST STRUGGLE OF PALESTINIANS FOR A SEPARATE HOMELAND

Islamabad May 10, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza speaker National Assembly has reiterated people and Government of Pakistan’s unwavering support to the just struggle of Palestinians for a separate homeland. She expressed solidarity with the Palestinians who suffered human and financial loss due to atrocities by the tyranny of Israeli forces. She said this in her address at the Second Open-Ended Extra-Ordinary Meeting of the Executive Committee of the Parliamentary Union of the OIC Member States (PUIC) in Istanbul, Turkey, today according to a message received from Ankara, Turkey.

In her address, Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Pakistan had always strongly condemned violation of international laws, humanitarian laws and negation of human rights anywhere in the world, including Palestine. She said that Israel must realize that the continued use of force, violence and hostility will be counter-productive for durable peace, development and prosperity in the region as well as the world.

She said that second open-ended Extraordinary Meeting of the Executive Committee of the PUIC was focusing on a very crucial issue, which was central to not only peace and stability in the Middle East but the entire world. The Speaker said that Muslim Ummah collectively expressed its complete and unanimous solidarity with the Palestinian people in wake of Israeli activities against its offensive of Construction of new settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, massive violation of human rights, prolonged blockade of Gaza, desecration of Islamic holy sites and the recent Israeli military order on deportation of the Palestinian people from West Bank. She said that Muslim Ummah was dismayed and appalled at the scale of Israel’s provocative actions in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. She said that the people and the Parliament of Pakistan stand by their Palestinian brothers and sisters in their hours of sufferings and grief.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that the PUIC Conference coincides with the International Mothers’ Day, which was celebrated yesterday all over the world. She said that as we cherish the most adorable relation of our respective lives, we should not forget the unfortunate mothers of Palestine, who face forced evictions and displacements from the security of their homes and lands and listen to the cries of those innocent children, who continue to fall victims to a seemingly unending conflict in front of their mothers. She said that as the first Muslim Woman Speaker of the world and as a mother and a daughter herself, she cannot remain unconcerned; therefore, she fully empathizes with the Palestinian women and children.

Madam Speaker stressed that from the platform of OIC and its Parliamentary Union, a two-pronged strategy should be adopted for encouraging unity and cohesion within the Palestinian ranks and at the same time, follow a proactive approach to support the legitimate Palestinian cause and their right to self-determination. She said that the OIC and its Parliamentary Union need to play a leading role in mitigating the tragedy resulting from the destruction of sacred structures in Jerusalem, building of new settlements and the recent Israeli military order on deportation of the Palestinian people from the West Bank. She stressed for close interaction with the UN and the European Union for the prevention of any further aggravation in the Middle East situation.

Dr. Fehmida suggested that initiatives of Inter-Faith Dialogue should be patronized and wholeheartedly supported in order to confront the challenges currently faced by our religion. She said that the world must be made to realize that Islam was a message of universal peace and harmony. She proposed that for a durable solution to the Arab-Israeli conflict Israel should totally withdrawal from all Occupied Arab Territories, restitute the inalienable right of the Palestinian people to have a State of their own with Al-Quds Al Sharif as its Capital, an immediate end to the construction of the Jewish settlements in all occupied Arab Territories, particularly the East Jerusalem and an end to the prolonged blockade of Gaza besides an complete halt of all excavations, which threaten the holy sites. She firmly believes that the path could lead to a comprehensive settlement of the Arab-Israeli dispute, including the core issue of Palestine, which holds the key to peace and prosperity in the Region and the world as a whole.

Islamabad, May 9, 2010 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condole the Death of Mother of Rana Muhammad Iqbal, Speaker Punjab Assembly

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDOLE THE DEATH OF MOTHER OF RANA MUHAMMAD IQBAL, SPEAKER PUNJAB ASSEMBLY

Islamabad: May 9, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan have condoled the sad demise of the mother of Rana Muhammad Iqbal, Speaker Punjab Assembly.

In their separate condolence messages to Rana Muhammad Iqbal, the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker expressed grief and sorrow over the passing away of his mother. They prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage and forbearance to the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss with equanimity.

Islamabad, May 8, 2010 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condole the Death of Mother-in-Law of Interior Minister and Father of Dr. Attiya Inayatullah, MNA

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDOLE THE DEATH OF MOTHER-IN-LAW of INTERIOR MINISTER AND FATHER OF DR. ATTIYA INAYATULLAH, MNA

Islamabad: May 8, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan have condoled the sad demise of mother-in-law of Mr. Rehman Malik, Minister for Interior and father of Dr. Attiya Inayatullah, MNA.

In their separate condolence messages to Mr. Rehman Malik and Dr. Attiya Inayatullah, the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker expressed grief and sorrow over the passing away of their loved ones. They prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed souls in eternal peace and grant courage and forbearance to the bereaved families to bear the irreparable loss with equanimity.

Islamabad, May 8, 2010 NA Speaker Stresses for Raising Public Awareness for Prevention of Thalassemia

NA SPEAKER STRESSES FOR RAISING PUBLIC AWARENESS FOR PREVENTION OF THALASSEMIA

Islamabad May 8, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker, National Assembly has said that today, millions of children across the world were suffering from Thalassemia, which need immediate attention of the nations individually and collectively. She expressed these views in her message on the Thalassemia Day being observed on 8th May across the world.

The Speaker said that lack of awareness among the masses was the main cause behind the increase in Thalassemia disorder in Pakistan. She stressed for raising public awareness for prevention of the dreadful blood disorder.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Thalassemia was a genetically transmitted blood disorder, which had affected million of people around the world and its further proliferation could only be slashed down by avoiding intra-family marriages.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza called upon the provincial governments to allocate necessary funds for establishment of Thalassemia Centers to ensure health coverage and blood transfusion services to the deserving patients in both the rural and urban areas of the country. She also appealed to the non-governmental organizations and philanthropist community to generously donate for establishment of such Centers where deserving Thalassemia patients could undergo clinical care besides having free blood transfusion services. Dr. Fehmida Mirza also called upon the media to create awareness among masses to stop further proliferation of the blood disorder. The Speaker eulogized the services of the volunteers and philanthropists working for wellbeing of Thalassemia patients.

Islamabad, May 7, 2010 President of the 64th Session of the UN General Assembly Calls on Speaker NA

PRESIDENT OF THE 64TH SESSION OF THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY CALLS ON SPEAKER NA

Islamabad May 7, 2010: Speaker National Assembly has stressed the need to strengthen United Nations so that it could play its role more affectively in bringing prosperity, peace and economic development in the world. She asked for the reorganization of UN Security Council for making it more affective and assertive. She said this while talking Dr. Ali Abdussalam Treki, President of the 64th Session of the UN General Assembly who called on her in Parliament House, this evening.

While talking to the visiting dignitary, the Speaker praised the role of UN General Assembly for taking up issues concerning peace and security, economic meltdown, social development and education. She appreciated the role of UN peace keepers in the conflicts zones across the world and the humanitarian work carried out by its allied agencies.

Apprising Dr. Ali Abdussalam Treki, about the problems confronting Pakistan, Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that terrorism and extremism were the biggest threat to peace and stability in the country in particular and the region, in general. She said that the present government was cognizant of the issues and was effectively engaged in eliminating that menace, however, support of international community would supplement its effort. She also called for drawing clear definition of terrorism by the UN.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza reiterated the need for revitalizing OIC Forum. She said that closer cooperation between the Muslim Ummah could help remove the negative perceptions about Islam. She appreciated the efforts of Dr. Ali Abdussalam Treki for initiating and facilitating interfaith and intercultural dialogue for creating harmony between diverse religious and cultural communities in the world.

Dr. Ali Abdussalam Treki, agreed with the concerns of the Speaker and said that UN need immediate reorganization, so that all the diverse nations could actively participate in the development initiatives across the world. He appraised the Speaker about the UN initiatives for maintaining peace across the globe, education, preservation of culture, ensuring food security, rehabilitation of displaced people in conflicts zones, provisions of medical care and clean drinking water. He agreed with Madam Speaker that world communities should draw clear distinction between terrorism and state terrorism so that people could live in harmony.

Dr. Ali Abdussalam Treki, congratulated Madam Speaker on passage 18th Constitutional Amendment and said that the Government would now work actively for the betterment of the people after restoration of constitution in its true form. He also congratulated Madam Speaker on her election as the first women Speaker in the Muslim Ummah.

Islamabad, May 7, 2010 Speaker Afghan Parliament Calls on Speaker NA

SPEAKER AFGHAN PARLIAMENT CALLS ON SPEAKER NA

Islamabad; May 7, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza Speaker National Assembly has said that Afghanistan and Pakistan were not only linked through common borders but shared history spread over centuries. She said that both the brotherly countries were tied in a bond, characterized by common faith, culture, history and values. She expressed her desire for enhancing the existing bilateral and parliamentary relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan. She was talking to Mr. Muhammad Yunus Qaununi, Speaker, Wolesi Jirga (Afghan Parliament) who called on her in the Parliament House along with a 10-member parliamentary delegation.

While talking to the Afghan Speaker, Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Pakistan and Afghanistan were the victims of terrorism and extremism, therefore, both the nations should devise a joint strategy and closer cooperation to address the root causes of terrorism. The Madam Speaker said that Pakistan wanted stable, peaceful and prosperous Afghanistan which was necessary for the peace and prosperity of the region. Underlining the need for enhanced interaction between the Parliamentarians of both the countries, she said that they could play an important role in strengthening relationship between the both countries. She underlined the need for enhancing interaction between the women parliamentarians of the two countries. The Madam Speaker expressed her optimism that the Jirga between both the countries would yield positive results in bringing both the nations more closer. She also conveyed her good wishes for the upcoming parliamentary election in Afghanistan.

Mr. Muhammad Yunus Qaununi, said that Pakistan and Afghanistan were having tremendous commonalities which date back time immemorial. He underlined the need to enhance cooperation to strengthen their relations. He said that both the nations were confronting common threats which need to be addressed jointly. Emphasizing the need to enhance cooperation in fields of trade and economy, he said that Afghanistan had immense potential which could be utilized for the benefit of both the nations. He said that Afghanistan can learn a lot from the experiences of Pakistan in democracy through enhance interaction between the parliamentarians of the two countries, he added. He agreed for regular exchange of delegations of women parliamentarians from both the countries.

The Afghan Speaker thanked the government of Pakistan for hosting millions of refugees who were displaced from their homeland. He said that government and the people of Afghanistan respect the affection and assistance by the people of Pakistan in the time of distress. He said that Afghan nation would never allow its soil to be used for destabilizing Pakistan. Mr. Muhammad Yunus Qaununi extended invitation to Speaker National Assembly to visit Afghanistan.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Pakistan democracies in both the countries were nascent, therefore, parliamentarians from both the countries should work for promotion democratic values and traditions. She extended training facilities to the Afghan Parliamentarians and Parliamentary Staff at the newly established Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services (PIPS). She said that National Assembly of Pakistan would welcome and support any initiative of strengthening Afghan Wolesi Jirga in terms of research and library facilities. She also accepted the invitation of Afghan Speaker to visit Afghanistan.

Islamabad, May 2, 2010 A Free, Secure and Independent Media Imperative for Peace and Democracy: Says N.A. Speaker

A FREE, SECURE AND INDEPENDENT MEDIA IMPERATIVE FOR PEACE AND DEMOCRACY: SAYS N.A SPEAKER

Islamabad May 2, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker, National Assembly has said that present democratic set up in the country strongly believes in freedom of press and had ensured the right of access to information through the recent 18th Constitutional Amendment. She said this in her message on the World Press Day being commemorated tomorrow throughout the globe under the auspices of United Nation.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that May 3rd reminds us to raise awareness and highlight the importance of freedom of press and also remind governments of their duty to respect and uphold the right of freedom of expression stipulated in universal declaration of Human Rights. She said that rapid pace of globalization had strengthened the development of a free, plurastic, independent and professional media. Therefore, it was incumbent upon the nations of the world to ensure independence of media so that information could be dispersed to all, without discrimination.

The Speaker said that a free secure and independent media was one of the foundation of peace and democracy. The Speaker said that media has played a significant role in highlighting the cause of downtrodden and marginalized segments of the society. She urged the media to keep playing its role objectively so that government could address its short comings in its governance. She paid rich tributes to the media men who have rendered great sacrifices while performing their duties without any fear in the conflict zones in all parts of the world.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza urged the media to help create harmony in the country by highlighting the social evils and anti state elements since Pakistan was passing through turbulence and anti state elements were trying to disrupt the development and economic activities in the country. She said the present government was aware of the problems and trying to counter their nefarious designs.

Islamabad, April 30, 2010 Protection of Labour Rights, Imperative for National Development: Says N.A. Speaker

PROTECTION OF LABOUR RIGHTS, IMPERATIVE FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT: SAYS N.A SPEAKER

Islamabad April 30, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that any nation’s economic strength and vigor was determined by the status and standard of living of its labour class and protection of their rights. She said this in her message on May Day being commemorated world over tomorrow.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that the labour class plays a vital role in the development and progress of a country, therefore, it was essential to ensure their welfare and payment of proper and timely remuneration for their services. The Speaker said that Islam lays a great emphasis on the welfare and proper award of labour. She said that all the civilized societies in the world have legislated to ensure the rights and welfare of their labour force. The Speaker said that the commemoration of May Day is a tribute to all those who sacrificed their lives for labour rights and renewal of determination to ponder and work for betterment of labour class.

The Speaker said that Pakistan was bless by Allah with enormous labour potential which if properly taped may create huge economic activity in the country. The Speaker said that Pakistani labour force was rendering valuable services and contribution in the economics of other countries and was a great source of our foreign exchange earnings. She said that the present democratic government was pursuing labour friendly policies and have made legislation for ensuring welfare of the labour class in the country. She said that policies of the government were continuation of the commitment of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto toward labour class. She said that government had increased the minimum remuneration to the unskilled labour and distributed shares of the public sector companies to their employees. She said that the steps of government have rejuvenated the zeal of the work force beside created their ownership in the public sector companies.

The Speaker said that rights and duties go side by side and urged the labour class of the country to work hard with devotion to harness the country’s resources for the prosperity and development of the country and its people.

Islamabad, April 26, 2010 NA Speaker urges parents, teachers and people from cross-section of the society for their cooperation to administer Polio Drops to children

NA SPEAKER URGE PARENTS, TEACHERS AND PEOPLE FROM CROSS-SECTION OF THE SOCIETY FOR THEIR COOPERATION TO ADMINISTER POLIO DROPS TO CHILDREN

Islamabad April 26, 2010 : Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has urged people from all segments of society to enthusiastically participate in the polio vaccination drive to save children from the crippling disease. The Speaker said this in her message on the launch of nation-wide Polio Vaccination Drive.

The Speaker urged Ulema, parents, teachers and other public functionaries for their cooperation to administer polio drops to children up to age of five years. She said that Ministry of Health, Provincial and District Health Department have chalked out a comprehensive strategy and arranged mobile teams to vaccinate children door-to-door throughout the country. She said that polio was a crippling disease that continues to threaten health of our children. She said that unfortunately Pakistan was among the half dozen countries in the world which were still not completely polio free.

Recalling the first Polio Eradication Initiative launched by the government of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Shaheed Mohtarma had a strong conviction to eradicate polio from the country which was demonstration of her commitment to improve the social sector, particularly the health of children.

The Speaker said that the aim of the government was to make Pakistan completely polio free where no child lives in the fear of being crippled for life. She said that unfortunately the extremists and militants opposed the vaccination of children against polio. She said that we will not permit militants to deprive our children of basic health care. Let us pledge that no child who should get polio drops, will be missed out, Speaker said.

Islamabad, April 20, 2010 Challenges Confronting Pakistan can be Overcome by Following the Teaching of Allama Iqbal: Speaker NA

CHALLENGES CONFRONTING PAKISTAN CAN BE OVERCOME BY FOLLOWING THE TEACHINGS OF ALLAMA IQBAL: SPEAKER NA

Islamabad; April 20, 2010: Allama Muhammad Iqbal was a visionary who conceived the idea of separate homeland for the Muslims of the subcontinent that was ultimately materialized in the shape of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, said the Speaker National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza in her message on the occasion of 72nd Death Anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal.

The Speaker said that prior to 1940, when Pakistan resolution was formally passed, Allama Iqbal’s philosophical and poetic writings were instrumental in formation and molding of public opinion. The Speaker said that the dream of Allama Iqbal was a great blessing for the Muslims of the subcontinent, and added that his poetic message rouse and strengthen the spirit and will of the Muslims to get independent and separate homeland for them where they could live according to their creed, culture and traditions.

The Speaker said that Allama Iqbal visualized the suffering of Ummah and masses that led to their melt down and also proposed recipe for their revival and regaining the lost glory of the Muslims.

The Madam Speaker said that the Muslim Ummah in general and Pakistan in particular today was confronting tremendous problems and challenges that could be overcome through the proposed remedies by Hakeem-ul-Ummah, Allama Muhammad Iqbal. The Speaker said that Allama Iqbal was the great proponent of unity of Muslim Ummah and reliance on their resources and strength. She said that much of today’s problems will simply vanish by following the teachings of Allama Iqbal and strictly following Islamic ways of life.

The Speaker said that Iqbal’s vision of Islamic society was universal that transcended beyond limits of territorial boundaries and barriers of nationhood. She said that his vision of Islam was global, encompassing every colour and race of humanity. The Madam Speaker said that extremism and bigotry had no place in the Allama Iqbal scheme of things and he wanted Muslims to be moderate, peaceful and enlightened so that their deeds convince non Muslim to develop penchant for Islam.

Islamabad, April 19, 2010 NA Speaker Constitutes Inquiry Committee under Protection Against Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2010

NA SPEAKER CONSTITUTES INQUIRY COMMITTEE UNDER PROTECTION AGAINST HARASSMENT OF WOMEN AT WORKPLACE ACT, 2010

Islamabad April 19, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has constituted an Inquiry Committee in the National Assembly Secretariat under provision 3(1) of the Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010.

The Committee will comprise of Mr. Safdar Hussain Malik, Additional Secretary (Com), Mr. Latif Qureshi, Joint Secretary (Legis) and Ms. Najma Siddiqui, Joint Secretary (Com). The Committee will take up complaints made under the Act.

Section 3(1) of the Protection against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act requires to institute an Inquiry Committee in each organization to enquire into complaints under the Act.

Islamabad, April 19, 2010 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condemn Bomb Blast in Peshawar

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDEMN BOMB BLAST IN PESHAWAR

Islamabad: April 19. 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan have strongly condemned the bomb blast in Qissa Khwani Bazar, Peshawar and expressed grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives.

In their separate statements, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker termed these bombs blasts a barbaric and shameful acts of terrorism. They said that the elements involved in such activities were the enemies of humanity and the country and wanted to spread terror and fear amongst the people. They said that these shameful acts could not deter the Government from its firm determination of fighting against terrorism.They were confident that the culprits involved in these activities will not be spared and will bring to justice.

They prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the souls of martyred in eternal peace and sympathized with bereaved families and prayed for early recovery of injured.

Islamabad, April 14, 2010 NA Speaker Chairs Finance Committee Meetings

NA SPEAKER CHAIRS FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING

Islamabad April 14, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly chaired a meeting of the National Assembly Finance Committee in Parliament House today. The Committee approved the minutes of the previous meeting of the Finance Committee and budget estimates for the financial year 2010-11 and revised estimates for the financial year 2009-10 amounting to Rs. 1,583,856,000/- and 1,303,590,000/-, respectively.

The Committee also approved the continuation of various temporary posts in the National Assembly for the year 2010-11 and enhancement of session allowance and electricity/ fuel subsidy admissible to the employees of the National Assembly.

Madam Speaker apprised the committee that the expenditures in the National Assembly Secretariat had been minimized to offset the financial burden on the national exchequer. She said that the budget estimates for the year 2010-11 had been slightly increased due to inflation. She informed the committee about the pace of work at Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services (PIPS). She said that PIPS was a landmark achievement of the incumbent parliament.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Abdul Hafiz Shaikh, Advisor to Prime Minister on Finance & Revenue, MNAs. Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, Ms. Fauzia Wahab, Mrs. Asma Arbab Alamgir, Ms. Nafisa Shah, Begum Ishrat Ashraf, Ch, Saud Majeed, Malik Ibrar Ahmed, Engr Khurram Dastagir Khan, Mrs. Farkhanda Amjad, Mr. Iqbal Muhammad Ali Khan, Mufti Ajmal Khan, Mr. Saeed Ahmed Zafar and Secretary Finance & Revenue.

Islamabad, April 14, 2010 NA Speaker Appreciates Japanese Support for Socio-Economic Development in the Country

NA SPEAKER APPRECIATES JAPANESE SUPPORT FOR SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN THE COUNTRY

Islamabad; April 14, 2010: The Speaker National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza has said that Pakistan was confronting challenges like terrorism, poverty, illiteracy and unemployment and it needed support of international community to overcome these challenges. She expressed these views while talking to the Ambassador of Japan, Chihiro Atsumi, who called on her in the Parliament House today.

Talking to the Ambassador, Madam Speaker said that terrorism and extremism were the biggest threats to peace and stability in the region and it can be eliminated by closer collaboration amongst the world community. Madam Speaker said that the incumbent government was determined to eliminate that menace from the country by addressing its root cause. She said that government had initiated various initiatives for socio-economic development in the country. The Speaker thanked the Ambassador for Japanese support to Pakistan in social sector and at the Friends of Democratic Pakistan Forum.

The Ambassador of Japan Chihiro Atsumi while appreciating Pakistan sacrifices in fight against terrorism said that Pakistan had rendered sacrifices for making the world safe. He assured the Speaker of his country’s assistance to Pakistan regarding resolving its problems and eliminating factors causing extremism & terrorism. The Ambassador congratulated Madam Speaker on passage of 18th Amendment by the National Assembly. He expressed his optimism that 18th Amendment would bring stability to the democracy in Pakistan.

Islamabad, April 14, 2010 NA Speaker Chairs Meeting of the WPC Working Council

NA SPEAKER CHAIRS MEETING OF THE WPC WORKING COUNCIL

Islamabad April 14, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly/Patron Women Parliamentarians Caucus chaired meeting of the Working Council of the Caucus in Parliament House, today.

Madam Speaker complimented the Women Parliamentarians for their active role in bringing the women related issues to the limelight. She said that their proactive stance towards the women empowerment had sensitized people and compelled them to think that women were not mere objects but equal partners to the national development.

The Women Parliamentarians Caucus (WPC) expressed its gratitude to Parliamentary Committee on Constitutional Reforms for recommending its three recommendations to be a part of 18th Amendment Bill. The WPC was of the view that one of its recommendations regarding “Education for All” would enhance literacy rate in the country specially the womenfolk.

Later, Working Council discussed holding of Women Convention in Islamabad under the auspicious of Women Parliamentarians Caucus which was unanimously agreed upon. It was decided that women parliamentarians from South Asian region, Women MPs from Provincial Assemblies in Pakistan and AJ&K and Gilgit-Baltistan Legislative Assemblies would be invited to take part in the interactive Women Convention. The Working Council decided to discuss modalities and dates for the Convention in its next meeting.

The Working Council of WPC also discussed establishment of Women Caucus in the provincial as well as AJ&K and Gilgit-Baltistan Legislative Assemblies in order to take the women MPs on board on women empowerment initiatives.

Islamabad, April 10, 2010 NA Speaker Visits PIMS to Inquire about the Health of Secretary NA

NA SPEAKER VISISTS PIMS TO INQUIRE ABOUT THE HEALTH OF SECRETARY NA

Islamabad April 10, 2010: The Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza visited Pakistan Institute of Medical Science (PIMS) to enquire about the health of Secretary National Assembly, Karamat Hussain Niazi, who is under treatment due to heart ailment.

The Speaker presented floral bouquet to the Secretary National Assembly and she remained there for some time. She directed the Executive Director PIMS to provide all necessary medical assistance to the Secretary. She prayed for his early recovery. MNAs Begum Ishrat Ashraf, Ms. Bushra Gohar and Ms. Nosheen Saeed were also accompanied with Madam Speaker on the occasion.

Islamabad, April 8, 2010 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condole the Death of Mother of Mustafa Kamal

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDOLE THE DEATH OF MOTHER OF MUSTAFA KAMAL

Islamabad: April 08, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan have condoled the sad demise of mother of Mustafa Kamal, former Nazim Karachi.

In their separate condolence messages to Mustafa Kamal, the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker expressed grief and sorrow over the passing away of his mother. They prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage and forbearance to the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss with equanimity.

Islamabad, April 6, 2010 NA Speaker Calls for Making Healthcare Establishments Safe

NA SPEAKER CALLS FOR MAKING HEALTHCARE ESTABLISHMENTS SAFE

Islamabad April 6, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has stressed for integration of prompt healthcare services in the disaster management strategy in order to provide prompt medical care to the disaster stricken people. She said that it was imperative to make the hospital safe heavens for disaster stricken people instead of becoming disaster zones themselves. She said this in her message on the World Health Day, being observed tomorrow.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that this day serves us an opportunity as a wakeup call for nations to be fully prepared for the emergencies. She said that when disaster strikes, well-prepared and functioning medical services are necessary in order to provide medical care to effectees. She said that disasters and natural calamities can take a terrible toll on human life and too can outbreak infectious disease. In case of any eventuality hospitals, clinics and other health facilities must react swiftly and efficiently. In case of their un-preparedness, these facilities instead of being safe havens could become disaster zones themselves.

The Speaker National Assembly called upon the national and international Health Care Organizations, civil society organizations and individuals to join hands and collectively make health establishments in the country safe in wake of the law and order satiation in the country. She commended the role of United Nations, world Health Organization, national and international health partners for facilitating the government in organizing relief and rehabilitation work during the devastating Earthquake of 2005, 2008 and other human catastrophes.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that the government was well cognizant of the fact and was giving due priority to the healthcare sector in the country. She said that government was intending to allocated substantial funds in the budget for the year 2009-2010 for providing hospitals with necessary equipments, medicines and paramedical staff to meet the special needs of the vulnerable population in the country especially in the rural.

Islamabad, April 6, 2010 NA Business Advisory Committee Meets

NA BUSSINESS ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETS

Islamabad; April 06, 2010: Meeting of the Business Advisory Committee was held under the Chairpersonship of Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly, in the Parliament House today.

The meeting discussed the agenda and ways to run the proceedings of 21st session of the National Assembly. The Representatives of all the parliamentary parties gave their proposals regarding business in the House. It was decided that the current NA Session will continue till the passage of the Constitutional Amendment Bill. The meeting also decided that the Constitutional Amendment Bill will be formally moved in the National Assembly today and general discussion on the bill will continue till tomorrow. It was further decided that the House will take up the Bill, clause by clause from Thursday, onwards.

The meeting was attended by Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah, Minister for Labour and Manpower, MNAs Sheikh Aftab Ahmed, Ch. Muhammad Barjees Tahir, Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Dr. Tahir Fazal Chaudhry, Ms. Jamila Gillani, Engr Shaukat Ullah, Dr. Abdul Qadir Khanzada, Nawab Muhammad Yousaf Talpur and Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada.

Islamabad, April 5, 2010 House Business Advisory Committee Meets

HOUSE BUSSINESS ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETS

Islamabad: April 5, 2010; The House Business Advisory Committee of National Assembly met under the Chairpersonship of Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly. The Committee discussed ways and means to run the 21stSession of the NA starting from tomorrow i.e. 6th April, 2010.

The Members of all the political parties gave their suggestions. It was decided that the constitutional amendments would be discussed and passed in the ensuing session. It was also decided that President’s address to the Parliament would be discussed in the next session of the National Assembly.

The Business Advisory Committee will meet tomorrow to decide the timetable for the discussion and passage of proposed constitutional amendments.

The meeting was attended by Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah, Minister for Labour and Manpower, Mr. Qamar Zaman Qaira, Minister for Information & Broadcasting, Raja Pervez Ashraf, Minister for Water & Power, MNAs Nawab Muhammad Yousaf Talpur, Sheikh Aftab Ahmed, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Ch. Muhammad Barjees Tahir, Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, Dr. Abdul Qadir Khanzada and Ms. Jamila Gillani.

Islamabad, April 4, 2010 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Extend Warm Felicitations to the Christian on Easter

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER EXTEND WARM FELICITATIONS TO THE CHRISTIAN ON EASTER

Islamabad April 4, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has extended warm felicitations to the Christian Members of the Parliament and the Christian community on the auspicious occasion of Easter..

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that the Easter is occasion to commemorate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the culmination of the entire year’s worship and prayers and forty days of fasting by our Christian brethren followed by celebration and jubilation. She said that this joyful celebration of the Feast of Easter may bring happiness, prosperity to everyone in the Christian community. “Happy Easter”. The Speaker asked them to pray for peace, prosperity and solidarity of the Pakistan.

The Speaker said that Jesus Christ (peace be upon him) was ordained by Almighty Allah to preach love, peace, tolerance and brotherhood.. He inculcated spiritual values among his followers to work for the Divine pleasure. His eternal message of love for humanity and for members of all communities and fraternities still holds strength to ensure harmony and peace in today’s world. She said that in the day of turbulence in the country, we should forge unity to counter the nefarious designs of the enemies.

She reiterated that the rights and privileges enjoyed by all minorities in Pakistan will be fully safeguarded by the government according to the Constitution of Pakistan, guiding principles of the Father of the Nation and Shaheed Zulfizar Ali Bhutto and Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. These would always remain a sacred trust for the people and the Government of Pakistan.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza also extended her appreciation to the Christian community for their deep sense of patriotism and dedicated services for the progress and prosperity of the country. Their unmatched contribution in the process of nation building, especially in the field of health and education was a glowing chapter of our national history, she added.

Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly has also extended greetings on his fellow Christian colleagues on the auspicious occasion of Easter.

Islamabad, April 2, 2010 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Felicitate Newly Elected Office Bearers of ANPS

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER FELICITATE NEWLY ELECTED OFFICE BEARERS OF APNS

Islamabad; April 2, 2010: The Speaker Dr. Fehmida Mirza and the Deputy Speaker National Assembly Faisal Karim Kundi have congratulated Hameed Haroon and Syed Sarmad Ali on their election for slots of President and General Secretary of the All Pakistan News Society (APNS), respectively.

In their separate congratulatory messages to Mr. Hameed Haroon and Syed Sarmad Ali , the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker said that their election to the office of President and Secretary General of the APNS was an evidence of trust and confidence of the members of the general council of APNS reposed in them. They expressed the hope that newspapers and publication industry will progress under their guidance and would guide the Government to improve governance and formulating pro-people policies. They said that under the guidance of newly elected office bearers, cordial relations between the government and press would gain further momentum.

Islamabad, March 31, 2010 Pakistan and Turkey are Friends Now and Forever: President Abdullah Gul Tells Speaker NA

PAKISTAN AND TURKEY ARE FRIENDS NOW AND FOREVER: PRESIDENT ABDULLAH GUL TELLS SPEAKER NA

Islamabad March 31, 2010: Turkish Presi dent Abdullah Gul has assured Pakistan of his country’s continued and unflinching support in diverse fields. He termed the friendship between his country and Pakistan, “a historic association that was deeply imbedded in the hearts and minds of the people of both the countries”. Mr. Abdullah Gul made these remarks while talking to Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly who called on him in Islamabad today. The Turkish President condoled the demise of the brother of Dr. Fehmida Mirza and offered Fateha.

The Turkish President said that his country’s strongly desires to translate that historic association with Pakistan into economic and strategic partnership in all fields for mutual benefit of both the nations. He expressed his optimism that under the able guidance of the Parliament, the Pakistani nation will be able to find a way out of its present testing times.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza complemented the Turkish President for his role as a true leader of the Muslim World. The Speaker informed the President that the Parliamentary Committee which was currently reviewing the constitution would complete its task with consensus. She said that the currently political leadership was following the legacy of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto who strived for national reconciliation.

Expressing her concern over the problems confronting Muslim Ummah, Madam Speaker said that it was the responsibility of all the parliamentarians from muslim countries to work in close cooperation. She stressed the need for convening a conference of Speakers from muslim countries to discuss and devise a common strategy to counter the menace of terrorism and extremism.

Mr. Abdullah Gul hailed the idea of convening Speakers Conference from muslim countries and opined that terrorism and extremism had impeded the peace and development in the region, therefore a joint strategy was imperative. He said that Pakistan and Turkey have unanimity of views on the political front and the cooperation between both the nations should be extended to all spheres of all mutual relations. The Turkish President also praised the legacy of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and termed the policy of reconciliation a key point to a developed and peaceful Pakistan.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza stressed the needed for enhanced interaction between the parliamentarians of both the countries. She said that parliamentarians of the two sides could play a meaningful role in the region as “parliamentary diplomacy could enable the real policy makers to understand each-others’ points of view, better. The Speaker appreciated the role played by Turkey in bringing Afghanistan and Pakistan closer through the Trilateral Process.

Islamabad, March 30, 2010 Three Member US Congressional Delegation Calls on the NA Speaker

THREE MEMBER US CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION CALLS ON THE NA SPEAKER

Islamabad March 30, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with USA and was fully committed to a long-term, broad based and stable strategic relationship in diverse fields. She said that Pakistan desires to further enhance its existing relations through active engagement of the people and the two governments. She said this while talking to a 3-member Congressional delegation headed by David Price, Member of U.S House of Representative/Chairman House Democracy Partnership Initiative.

Madam Speaker appreciated the U.S Administration’s Commitment to Pakistan’s stability, security and prosperity through support for economic and social sector development. She called for the need to identify core interests and to find common grounds to ally efforts for the U.S support for the emerging democracy in Pakistan and the challenges confronting the incumbent democratic setup.

The Speaker said that the people in Pakistan have voted for progressive parties in country and were expecting much from their Parliament. She said that the new Parliament was committed to come up to expectations of the people. The Speaker stressed the need for enhanced interaction between the Parliamentarians of both the countries for sharing and learning from the experiences of each other.

The Speaker said that terrorism and extremism were common enemies of humanity and can be purged through eliminating its root causes. She said that the biggest challenges Pakistan was facing were poverty alleviation, unemployment, illiteracy and energy crises and Pakistan needed US support in these areas besides its support in fight against terrorism. She stressed the need that US should establish relations with the people’s representatives besides establishing people to people contacts.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza appreciated the launch of House Democracy Partnership Initiative of the U.S House of Representatives. She expressed her optimism that the parliamentary engagement would induce upward momentum in the existing parliamentary ties between both the parliaments and would provide opportunities to parliamentarians to share experience to improve parliamentary oversight.

The Head of US Delegation David Price said that USA was interested to develop multi-faceted long term relations with Pakistan. He said US wanted Pakistan to be strong democratic country and was ready to support Pakistan in this regard. He underlined need to expedite efforts for ending terrorism and extremism from the region. He said that US would expand its support in economic, educational and social sector development. He assured the Speaker that US House of Representatives would extend its all-out intellectual and financial support to Parliament of Pakistan to enhance the capacity of parliamentarians and the parliamentary support staff in order to improve parliamentary oversight.

Islamabad, March 30, 2010 Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman Calls on Speaker NA to Condole the Death of her Brother

MAULANA FAZL-UR-REHMAN CALLS ON SPEAKER NA TO CONDOLE THE DEATH OF HER BROTHER

Islamabad: March 30, 2010: Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman Chairman Special Parliametnary committee on Kashmir called on Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly to condole the demise of her brother Maj. (Retd) Qazi Anwar Abid, in the Parliament House, today.

Maulana Fazl-ur-Rehman expressed his heart felt grief and sorrow over the sad demise of the brother of Madam Speaker National Assembly and prayed for the solace of the departed soul and grant of forbearance and patience to bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss.

Later on a condolence reference was held in the Parliament House to offer Fateh for the deceased brother of Madam Speaker National Assembly. A large number of officers and staff members of National Assembly Secretariat participated in the condolence reference. Madam Speaker was also present on the occasion The Khateeb of Parliament Mosque offered Fatah for the departed soul..

Thanking the Staff Members, Madam Speaker said that it was very kind of them to offer condolence and share her grief. She said that her brother was role model for her and he has devoted his life for the welfare of disabled and destitute people of the society by establishing Al-Omeed Welfare Institute for the disabled children in Karachi.

Islamabad, March 30, 2010 Speaker Lok Sabha Condoles the Death of Brother of Speaker NA

SPEAKER LOK SABHA CONDOLES THE DEATH OF BROTHER OF SPEAKER NA

Islamabad March 29, 2010: Meira Kumar, Speaker Lok Sabha, today called Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza and condoled the death of her brother Maj (R) Qazi Anwar. She expressed her sympathies with the bereaved family and prayed for solace of the deceased.

Meira Kumar called Speaker National Assembly from Bangkok, who is currently on an official visit to Thailand.

The gesture of Speaker Lok Sabha is an evidence of the cordial relations between the counterparts and the parliaments of both the neighboring countries. The parliamentary relations between both the countries were rejuvenated after the recent visit of Speaker National Assembly to India to attend the IPU Speakers moot.

During National Assembly Speaker’s visit, the Speakers agreed to enhance bilateral relations between both the parliaments by encouraging exchange of delegations. The Speakers also agreed to revive the Pak-Indo Friendship Groups in their respective parliaments.

Islamabad, March 23, 2010 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Congratulate Dr. Shama Khalid on her Appointment as Governor Gilgit-Baltistan

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONGRATULATE DR. SHAMA KHALID, ON HER APPOINTMENT AS GOVERNOR GILGIT-BALTISTAN

Islamabad March 23, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly have congratulated Dr. Shama Khalid on her appointment as the First Governor of Gilgit-Baltistan. In their separate congratulatory messages to Dr. Shama Khalid, Speaker and Deputy Speaker said that under her able leadership, Gilgit-Baltistan will witness development and prosperity.

The Speaker said that Gilgit-Baltistan was a strategically and geographically an important part of Pakistan and posses immense human resource and economic potential which has not been properly exploited for the welfare of people of the area. She was confident that under the guidance of Dr. Shama Khalid, the government of Gilgit-Baltistan would initiate policies which would usher in an era of development and welfare of the region.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that appointment of a Woman as Governor Gilgit-Baltistan was continuation of the pledge of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto to empower women of Pakistan and bring them in mainstream.

Islamabad, March 22, 2010 NA Speaker Greets Nation on Pakistan Day

NA SPEAKER GREETS NATION ON PAKISTAN DAY

Islamabad March 22nd, 2010 National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza has greeted the nation on the auspicious occasion of Pakistan day and said that March 23 has a special significance in the history of sub-continent.

In her message, the Speaker said that 70 years ago, on this day the Muslim of South Asia, under the leadership of Quid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in Lahore, resolved to work for independent Muslim state. The Lahore Resolution which was came to be known as Pakistan Resolution, imparted a new vigor and impetus to the movement of independence gave Muslim new sense of purpose and direction.

The Speaker said that for centuries, non-Muslims lived peacefully, enjoyed complete religious freedom under the Muslim rule in sub-continent, however the government which came in power under government of India Act, 1935 give a rude shock to the Muslims forcing them that their rights would not be protected with in a united India. “They were thus left no choice except to demand independence not only from the Yoke of Colonialism but also from the Hindu domination”, she said.

The Speaker said that the Quaid-e-Azam embodied Islamic principles of tolerance and humanism which in courage him to rally around, not only Muslim public opinion but also support from other minorities to demand and create a separate Muslim homeland. “It is a tribute to his leadership and honesty of purpose that with in short period of seven years he secured Pakistan against heavy odds through peaceful means” she said that.

She said that while celebrating Pakistan day it was incumbent upon us to resolve the spirit of national unity and follow the Quaid’s guiding principles of unity, faith and discipline “let us make a firm resolve to make all out efforts to achieve the objectives of creation of Pakistan and also to make Pakistan a strong and prosperous, democratic country where the will of the people, equality, justice and brotherhood reign supreme” she said.

Madam Speaker said that democracy was best solution of all ours problems, therefore on this suspicious occasion let us resolved to work hard to strengthening democracy in Pakistan. She said that democracy in Pakistan at work and it was the responsibility of every citizen to work for strengthening democratic institutions in the country.

Islamabad, March 17, 2010 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condole the Death of Maulana Abdul Haq Baloch Former MNA

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDOLE THE DEATH OF * *MAULANA ABDUL HAQ BALOCH FORMER MNA

Islamabad; March 17, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly, have condoled the death of former MNA Maulana Abdul Haq Baloch.

In their separate condolence messages to the bereaved family, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker expressed grief and sorrow over the said demise. They prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage and forbearance to the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss with equanimity.

Islamabad, March 15, 2010 NA Speaker Fehmida Mirza Meets Speaker House of Commons, Addresses Commonwealth Parliamentarians

NA SPEAKER FEHMIDA MIRZA MEETS SPEAKER HOUSE OF COMMONS, ADDRESSES COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARIANS

Islamabad March 15, 2010: Speaker National Assembly Dr Fehmida Mirza held a meeting with her Counterpart Rt Hon John Bercow, MP, today at the House of Commons, this morning according to a message received from Pakistan High Commission London, UK.

They exchanged views on bilateral relations and noted with satisfaction that the two countries had come closer since a democratically elected Government assumed Office in Pakistan. The British Government was actively engaged in the development assistance, education sector reforms, investments in commercial avenues and there was greater interaction at the political levels.

The Speaker highlighted the challenges inherited by the democratic government in Pakistan. With particular reference to the contributions in the fight against terrorism and the colossal losses incurred by Pakistan and its people, she underscored the urgent need for tangible support by the international community. She called for strengthening the democratic institutions for which whole-hearted support from Western democracies was essential.

Mr. Bercow expressed understanding and endorsed the approach of trade for Pakistan to achieve sustainable development. He fully backed Pakistan’s requirements. They also agreed to increase Parliamentary exchanges to learn from each other’s experience.

Later, the Speaker National Assembly addressed the participants of the Seminar on parliamentary practice and procedures on the topic of ‘Role of Speaker in the Parliament’. The Seminar was part of the activities organized by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, UK Branch, which parliamentarians from Commonwealth countries attended. From Pakistan, MNAs Mr Zafar Ali Shah and Mrs Yasmeen Rehman, and Deputy Speaker Balochistan Assembly Matiullah Agha were invited to attend the Seminar.

The British Parliament had chosen the Speaker as a special guest for the 59 th Westminster Seminar. Rt Hon John Bercow, Speaker House of Commons also spoke on the same topic.

In her address she dilated upon the provisions in Pakistan’s Constitution regarding the election and the role of Speaker, procedure for the Speaker’s election, her policy of keeping all members from both treasury and the opposition on-board in line with Mohterma Benazir Bhutto’s vision of reconciliation, efforts towards encouraging the Women Parliamentarians’ participation in the legislative activities, ensuring active participation of the minority representatives and her role outside the Parliament in the social sector and women development activities.

Islamabad, March 12, 2010 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condemn the Bomb Blast in Lahore Cantonment

NA SPEAKER AND ACTING SPEAKER CONDEMN THE BOMB BLAST IN LAHORE CANTONMENT

Islamabad; March 12, 2010. Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Acting Speaker National Assembly have strongly condemned bomb blast at Lahore cantonment and expressed their heartfelt grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives.

In their separate messages, the Speaker and Acting Speaker said that it was a shameful act of terrorism, which reflected inhumane and callous nature of the perpetrators. They said that the elements involved in such cowardice act were the enemies of the country and humanity. They said that terrorist wanted to disrupt the peace in the country and create terror and fear amongst the people but they will not succeed in their nefarious design. They called upon the law enforcing agencies to apprehend the criminals involved in this act of terrorism and bring them to justice.

The Speaker and Acting Speaker sympathized with the injured and their families and prayed for their speedy recovery. They also prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the souls of the victims in eternal peace and grant the bereaved families the courage to bear the irreparable loss.

Islamabad, March 11, 2010 NA Speaker and Acting Speaker Congratulate Muhammad Pervez Malik on his Election as MNA

NA SPEAKER AND ACTING SPEAKER CONGRATULATE MUHAMMAD PERVEZ MALIK ON HIS ELCTION AS MNA

Islamabad; March 11, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Acting Speaker National Assembly have congratulated Muhammad Pervez Malik on his election as a member of National Assembly from NA-123, Lahore.

In their separate congratulatory messages to the newly elected MNA the Speaker and Acting Speaker said that his election as a Member of National Assembly was an evidence of the trust and confidence reposed in him by the people of his constituency and party leadership. They expressed hope that the newly elected Member will come up to expectations of the people and will fulfill his responsibilities according to the constitution of Pakistan and will work for the promotion of the democracy in the country.

Islamabad, March 10, 2010 Pakistan and Turkey are Friends Now and Forever; President Abdullah Gul Tells Speaker NA

PAKISTAN AND TURKEY ARE FRIENDS NOW AND FOREVER; PRESIDENT ABDULLAH GUL TELLS SPEAKER NA

Islamabad March 10, 2010: President Abdullah Gul of Turkey has assured the Pakistan’s National Assembly Speaker Dr. Fehmida Mirza of his country’s continued unflinching support to Pakistan. He made these remarks in his meeting with Dr. Fehmida Mirza, who met the Turkish President along-with her parliamentary delegation here in Ankara, according to a message received from Turkey.

The Turkish President termed the friendship between his country and Pakistan “a historic association that is deeply imbedded in our people’s hearts and minds”. He said that the Turkish people can never forget the sacrifices of the Muslims of the Indo-Pakistan during the Turk War of Liberation. Mr. Gul also lauded Dr. Fehmida Mirza’s position and termed her a “role model in the Muslim World”. While referring to his forthcoming visit to Pakistan in end of March this year, Turkish President said that he would be taking with him noted Turkish investors and businessmen for a meaningful economic and business relationship between the two countries. He also paid rich tribute to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and also appreciated the role of President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani in steering Pakistan through the present tough times.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza thanked the Turkish President and appreciated his role as a true leader of the Muslim World. She apprised the Turkish President about the contributions of Pakistan’s Parliament during the last two years in addressing various issues confronting the nation today. She said that the political leadership of the country was on one page as there was complete consensus on key issues like democracy, fight against terrorism and peace in the region.

Madam Speaker also called on Mr. Mehmet Ali Sahin, speaker of the Trukish Grnat National Assembly in PAlriament House in Ankara. Both the Speakers vowed to further strengthen the existing relations between the two countries by forging close parliamentary ties. During their meeting they reviewed the current status of parliamentary cooperation and other areas of mutual collaboration.

Dr. Mirza explained the current situation in the region and Pakistan’s efforts in combating terrorism. She stressed the international community to strengthen Pakistan by lending complete support to the country’s nascent democracy. ”Time is running short. If we are not able to address people’s concern, they will lose hope in democracy.” Dr. Mirza added. She said that parliamentarians of the two sides could play a meaningful role in the region as “parliamentary diplomacy could enable the real policy makers to understand each-others’ points of view better. The Speaker highly appreciated the role played by Turkey in bringing Afghanistan and Pakistan closer through the Trilateral Process. She also lauded relentless support of Government and people of Turkey in the aftermath of the fateful October 8, 2005 earthquake which effected large number of people in Kashmir and the country’s North.

In his remarks, Mr. Sehin paid tributes to the stature of his Pakistani counterpart and said that Turkey felt pride in her election as the first Muslim Woman Speaker. He also ensured continued assistance to Pakistan in seeking sustainable solutions to its current economic problems, particularly in the energy sector. Later, the President of the Foreign Relations Committee of the Turkish Assembly Mr. Murat Merrcan also called on the Speaker. The Members of his Committee and Pakistani delegation were also present in the meeting where the two sides discussed in detail number of issues concerning the present situation on Afghanistan, Pakistan’s relations with India and the Kashmir Dispute, the Trilateral process.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza also visited the Turkish National Education Ministry where she was received by the Turkish Education Minister Ms. Nimet Cubukcu. Ms. Cubukcu informed the Speaker of the current status of cooperation in the vital field of education between the two countries. The Speaker stressed on improving the literacy rates, terming them the “true indicators of a nation’s real human development.

Islamabad, March 8, 2010 Dr. Fehmida Mirza Calls for Reinvigoration of a Meaningful Spirit of Partnership among Women Across the World to Address the Plight of Women Subjected to Discrimination and Violence

DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA CALLS FOR REINVIGORATION OF A MEANINGFUL SPIRIT OF PARTNERSHIP AMONG WOMEN ACROSS THE WORLD TO ADDRESS THE PLIGHT OF WOMEN SUBJECTED TO DISCRIMINATION AND VIOLENCE

Islamabad March 8, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that denial of equal opportunities and gender inequality was the biggest obstacle to the progress of the womenfolk. She called upon the international community to take necessary measures to protect and ensure equal opportunities to women so that they could work for the progress and prosperity of their respective countries. She said this while addressing the International Women’s Day Summit being held in Ankara, Turkey, today, according to a message received from Turkey.

Madam Speaker said that no nation can make progress without the active participation of women and no struggle can succeed without women participating side by side with men. She said that Islam recognized women as equal human beings and granted them rights to inherit, own property, engage in trade and work in other spheres of life. **The suffering of the women amply demonstrates that women were not mere victims of that viscous denial of those opportunities but that gender inequality was also the biggest obstacle to progress, justice and social stability as it continued to deprive a nation of a significant source of human potential, she said.*

She said that the oppression against women could be addressed by ensuring continuity of democratic processes within our respective countries and guaranteeing a world-wide zero tolerance attitudes towards women. She said that through active involvement of women at the highest forums of decision-making, could achieve the desired objectives. She said that the performance of the parliaments where women were able to attain the critical mass, depicted that such countries had higher social and economic standards of living, lower rates of infant and maternal mortality and more equitable access to opportunities.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza called for reinvigoration of a meaningful spirit of partnership among women across the world to address the plight of millions of our less-fortunate women who suffered in silence as discrimination and violence against them remains on rise in the East and the West alike. She called for pursuing policy of literacy and education among women to ensure their social and economic empowerment. She said that the women should influence their parliaments to revisit the statutes books and bring legislations which address women’s concerns.

Madam Speaker said that return to democracy in Pakistan had always brought hope and opened new vistas to women. The first popularly elected Government of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto gave a consensus constitution that not only accepted women as equal citizens but also opened doors of public offices, higher education and professional carriers on them. Expressing her gratitude to Mohtrama Benzair Bhutto, Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that the two governments of Shaheed Mohtarma, were the turning points in addressing institutional discrimination against women head-on. She said that under Mohtaram’s dynamic and courageous leadership, a direction for women’s rights and empowerment was set that was irreversible and was followed by successive governments until today. She said that creation of Ministry of Women Development, signing of CEDAW, establishment of First Women Bank & Women Police Stations, appointment of Women Judges to Superior Courts and ensuring quota for women in government jobs were the land mark achievements of the Mohtaram’s government.

She said that the present government was also pursuing policy of bringing a silent revolution through a dynamic scheme of Benazir Income Support Programme, which places monetary assistance directly into the hands of the most vulnerable women of our society. She said that the government had transferred the ownership of state lands in the name of landless women peasants, passage of landmark legislations by the parliament for protect women from domestic violence to make their harassment at workplace a strictly punishable crime.

The appreciated the efforts of the Turkish government for holding the International Women’s Day summit in Turkey which provided the women across the world to engage in dialogue and share their experiences for women empowerment.

Islamabad, March 6, 2010 NA Speaker Leads Parliamentary Delegation to Turkey

NA SPEAKER LEADS PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION TO TURKEY

Islamabad March 6, 2010: A 5 members Pakistan Parliamentary delegation led by Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan will leave for Turkey on March 7, 2010 on a 6-day official visit.

During its stay in Turkey, the delegation will attend International Women’s Summit. The Prime Minister of Turkey will inaugurate the summit. The Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza will address the summit on March 8, 2010. The Members of the delegation will participate in the workshop of the summit and also meet Parliamentarians of the other countries on the side lines of the summit.

The Madam Speaker will also meet the President of Turkey, Speaker of Turkish Grand National Assembly and Chairman Foreign Relation’s Committee of Turkish Parliament during her visit. The delegation will also visit Ataturk Mausoleum and will lay floral wreath.

The delegation comprises the MNAs, Mr. Nawab Ali Wassan, Sardar Shahjehan Yousaf, Ms. Bushra Gohar and Ms. Saira Tarar.

Islamabad, March 5, 2010 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condemn the Bomb Blast in Hangu

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDEMN THE BOMB BLAST IN HANGU

Islamabad; March 5, 2010. Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly have strongly condemned the bomb blast in Hangu today, causing the loss of precious lives.

In their separate messages, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker said that it was a shameful act of terrorism, which reflected inhumane and callous nature of the perpetrators. They said that the elements involved in such cowardice act were the enemies of the humanity and earned bad name to Islam. They called upon the law enforcing agencies to apprehend the criminals involved in this act of terrorism and bring them to justice.

The Speaker and Deputy Speaker prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed souls in eternal peace and sympathized with the bereaved families. They also prayed for the injured for their speedy recovery.

Islamabad, February 28, 2010 NA Speaker to Chair 16th Speakers' Conference in Lahore on 2nd & 3rd February, 2010

NA SPEAKER TO CHAIR 16TH SPEAKERS' CONFERENCE IN LAHORE ON 2ND & 3RD FEBRUARY, 2010

Islamabad February 28, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly will chair the 16th Speakers’ Conference on 02nd and 3rd March, 2010 at Lahore. The Chairman & Deputy Chairman Senate, Speakers & Deputy Speakers of Provincial Assemblies of Punjab, NWFP, Balochistan, Sindh and Speakers & Deputy Speakers of AJ&K and Gilgit-Baltistan Legislative Assemblies will attend the two days’ Speakers’ moot. The 16th Speakers’ Conference has a special significance since it is being chaired by Dr. Fehmida Mirza, who is the first Women Speaker in the parliamentary history of the country.

The Speaker and Deputy Speaker of Gilgit-Baltistan Legislative Assembly have been extended special invitation to attend the Conference. This would be their first participation in Speakers’ Conference after the promulgation of Gilgit-Baltistan Empowerment and Self Governance Order 2009.

The 16th Speakers’ Conference will take stock of issues related to the working of legislatures. The Conference will also deliberate upon the legal issues and suggest reforms where required for improving the working of the parliament, provincial legislatures and the legislative process. The Conference would also take up the issues being confronted by the Presiding Officers for smooth conduct of the proceedings of their respective Houses.

The decision of convening 16th Speakers’ Conference was taken in the 15th Speakers’ Conference held in Quetta in 2006. The Speakers’ Conference is hosted by Senate, National Assembly and Provincial Assemblies and AJ&K Legislative Assembly turn by turn.

The Conference will be attended by Mir. Jan Muhammad Jamali, Deputy Chairman Senate, Rana Muhammad Iqbal, Speaker Punjab Assembly, Mr. Nisar Ahmad Khuro, Speaker Sindh Assembly, Mr. Kiramatullah Khan, Speaker NWFP, Mr. Muhammad Aslam Bhootani, Speaker Balochistan Assembly, Shah Ghulam Qadir, Speaker AJ&K Legislative Assembly and Mr. Wazir Baig, Speaker Gilgit-Baltistan Legislative Assembly and Deputy Speaker and Secretaries of all the Provincial Assemblies.

Islamabad, February 26, 2010 Salvage from Problems Confronting Ummah Lies in Following Sunnah: Says Speaker NA

SALVAGE FROM PROBLEMS CONFRONTING UMMAH LIES IN FOLLOWING SUNNAH: SAYS SPEAKER NA

Islamabad February 26, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) is emblem of tranquility, justice, modesty, peace, love and brotherhood. She said that Ummah should seek salvage from the difficulties by following and practicing the teaching of Holy Prophet. She expressed these views in her message on the eve of “Eid Milladunnabi” being commemorated through out the muslim world tomorrow.

The Speaker said that Holy Prophet was a torch bearer and blessing for the entire universe. She said that it was the strength of the Holy Prophet’s character and preaching through self example and charms of personality that moulded the hearts and minds of the people and compelled the enemies to embrace Islam. “He articulated a comprehensive code of conduct for interpersonal relations and formulating a healthy society through his personal conduct” Speaker said.

She said that the Prophet revolutionized the world in a shortest time and changed every aspects of people life through his personal example and deeds. She stressed upon the ummah to follow the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) which provided the guidance in every sphere of life. She said that Muslim Ummah was confronting the challenges of sectarianism and terrorism and added that best solution to all those problems lied in following the teaching of Holy Prophet (PBUH).

Islamabad, February 23, 2010 NA Speaker Chairs Meeting ofthe PIPS Board of Governors

NA SPEAKER CHAIRS MEETING OF THE PIPS BOARD OF GOVERNORS

Islamabad; February 23, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly chaired a meeting of the Board of Governors (BOG) of the Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services (PIPS) in the Parliament House this afternoon.

The Board of Governors approved the budget for Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services for the financial year 2009-10. Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Convener of the Sub-Committee No.1 constituted by the Board of Governors to formulate recommendations on the accounting procedures and budget estimates for PIPS for the year 2009-10 presented its recommendation. The Convener informed the BOG that the budget estimates for the year 2009-10 were worked out at Rs.120 million; however, after thorough deliberation and taking into account the interim arrangement of PIPS, it was decided to reduce it to Rs.19.5 million for the current financial year. He further informed that the financial management manual and chart of accounts and codes had been prepared; accounting procedures reviewed for bringing financial transparency and in line with the government financial accounting procedures.

The Board of Governors also asked the Sub-Committee No.2 constituted under the convenership of Senator Dr. Babar Awan, Minister for Law & Justice and Parliamentary Affairs to formulate its recommendations regarding service rules for the manpower of PIPS, at the earlier so that the formal recruitment process of the human resource could be initiated. The Board of Governors also approved the appointment of incumbent Executive Director (PIPS) till 30th June, 2010.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly said that the establishment of the Pakistan Institute of Parliamentary Services would be beneficial for Members of the Parliament to enhance their capacities and better contribute towards welfare of their constituents. She apprised the committee about the pace of work at the permanent PIPS Building. She said that PIPS Facility was being established with the financial and technical assistance of USAID.

The meeting of the BOG was attended by Mr. Nisar Ahmad Khuhro, Speaekr Sindh Assembly, Mr. Kiramat Ullah Chagharmati, Speaker NWFP Assembly, Senators Mr. Ishaq Dar, Syed Tahir Hussian Mashadi, MNAs Mr. Pervaiz Khan Advocate, Mian Raiz Hussian Pirzada, Mr. Zafar Beg Bhittani, Mr. S. A. Iqbal Qadri, Mrs. Yasmeen Rehman, Mr. Aftab Shaban Mirani, ch. Muhamamd Barjees Tahir, Secretaries of Senate and National Assembly.

Islamabad, February 19, 2010 Dr. Fehmida Mirza Chairs NA Finance Committee

DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA CHAIRS NA FINANCE COMMITTEE

Islamabad February 19, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly chaired a meeting of the Finance Committee of the National Assembly in the Parliament House, this afternoon.

The Committee approved the minutes of the previous meeting of the Finance Committee. The Committee discussed and approved the up-gradation of the posts of various lower staff in the National Assembly Secretariat. The Committee was informed that LDCs, UDCs and Urdu Typists working in grade 5, 7 and 9, respectively were rendering their services since last ten years and had no promotional incentive. In order to give them promotional incentives, their posts needed to be upgraded to enhance their performance. The committee accorded approval to the proposal. The Committee also approved the creation of posts of Private Secretaries for the Chairmen Standing Committees.

The Committee approved expenditures incurred on repairs of vehicles for the National Assembly Secretariat and Chairmen Standing Committees and maintenance of the Parliament House.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza expressed satisfaction on the austerity measures adopted by the National Assembly Secretariat. She said that unnecessary expenditures were curtailed keeping in view of the financial satiation in the country. The Speaker directed to observe merit in recruitment in the Assembly Secretariat and initiate refresher/training courses for the capacity building of the staff.

The meeting was attended by MNAs Fouzia Wahab, Sardar Shahjehan Yousaf, Mrs. Bushra Rehman, Begum Irhrat Ashraf, Mr. Iqbal Mohammad Ali Khan, Mr. Noor-ul-Haq Qadri, Mr. Istiqbal Khan, Engineer Khurrum Dastigir Khan, Malik Ibrar Ahmad, Secretary Ministry of Finance and Secretary and Additional Secretary of the National Assembly Secretariat.

Islamabad, February 19, 2010 EU Election Observer Mission Delegation Calls on Speaker NA

EU ELECTION OBSERVER MISSION DELEGATION CALLS ON SPEAKER NA

Islamabad; February 19, 2010: A 3-member EU Election Observation Mission headed by Mr. Michael Meyer-Resende called on Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly in Parliament House, Islamabad today. While talking to the Delegation, the Speaker said that EU and Pakistan shares perception of various global issues and attaches high value to its strategic partnership in various fields. She appreciated the support of EU for supporting democracy in Pakistan.

The Speaker said that the present democratic dispensation in the country strongly believes in continuation of the democratic process and vibrant democratic institutions in the country. She said that democracy in Pakistan had been established after an intense struggle and any attempt to derail it would be foiled by the progressive people of Pakistan.

Madam Speaker said that the visible manifestation of the Government’s commitment for vibrant and sovereign democratic institutions was that the government had always taken the Parliament into confidence on all major issues. She said that the passage of unanimous resolution in the Parliament and subsequent constitution of Committee on National Security was an evidence of the Government’s commitment. She said that the National Security Committee which consists of all the political parties in the Parliament renders advice to the Government on all issues concerning with security of the country. She said that the present Parliament consists of progressive political forces who enthusiastically working for the betterment of the people and strengthening the democracy in the country.

The Speaker said that the prevalent electoral regulations in Pakistan require massive reforms in order to make the electoral process more transparent and acceptable to all the stakeholders. She appreciated the support of European Union for strengthening of democratic institutions in Pakistan. She agreed that the recommendations of EU Election Observer Mission would improve the electoral process and democratic governance in Pakistan.

The Head of the Election Observer Mission apprised the Madam Speaker about their consultations with the Election Commission of Pakistan, Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Leader of major Political Parties and Parliamentarians. He said that the EU had initiated a programme through which support will be extending to the Assemblies for electoral reforms and capacity building of the media reporting on elections. He was confident that implementation of the recommendation of Election Observer Mission would substantially contribute to peace and stability in Pakistan through improved general and local election processes.

Islamabad, February 17, 2010 NA Speaker Chairs Meeting of the Women Parliamentarians CAUCUS

NA SPEAKER CHAIRS MEETING OF THE WOMEN PARLIAMENTARIANS CAUCUS

Islamabad February 17, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has stressed the need to extend maximum financial and technical support o women entrepreneurs for their empowerment and active participation in national development. She said that lack of resources and restricted excess to market were the main causes behind their economic empowerment. She said this while chairing a meeting of the Women Parliamentary Caucus in the Parliament House for briefing by Trade Development Authority of Pakistan on women contribution in handicrafts, Jewellery and Textile production and exports sectors.

The Speaker said that rural areas of Pakistan have vast economic potential which needs to be properly exploited for benefit of the people inhabiting those areas. She said that rural women-artisans have major contribution in earning livelihood for their families but were subject to economic exploitation by middlemen and lack of resources, expertise and technical support. She stressed for extending support to them by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) for value addition in their products.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza asked TDAP to arrange skill development course for rural women in handicrafts, Jewellery and textile sectors and ensuring their smooth access to the international market. The Speaker called upon the women Parliamentarians to identify the hidden potential in their respective areas and seek technical support from TDAP so that training and skill development programs in rural areas could be initiated. She also asked the Commerce Ministry to ensure inclusion of women entrepreneurs in the trade delegation visiting in the Trade Expos held abroad so that their products could be introduced in foreign markets.

Earlier, the Chief Executive TDAP briefed the Caucus about its initiatives for the development of the handicrafts, Jewellery, textile and other sectors where rural women are actively involved. He said that there was a huge demand of Pakistani handicrafts and other items in foreign markets. He said there are various sectors like food production, dairy and meat packaging and gems production have huge potential which needed to be exploited. He said that TDAP has initiated various programs for the women entrepreneurs for diversification of their products and could fetch maximum price. He said that TDAP would extend all possible assistance to the women parliamentarians in the targeted fields. He also apprised the caucus about the Local and International Expos where women entrepreneurs would be participating.

Islamabad, February 16, 2010 German and Egyption Ambassadors Meet NA Speaker

GERMAN AND EGYPTIAN AMBASSADORS MEET NA SPEAKER

Islamabad February 16, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that the new democratic setup in Pakistan was facing diverse challenges and was trying to amicably resolve the problems indigenously; however, the support of friendly countries would supplement its efforts. Madam Speaker expressed these views while talking to Mr. Michael Koch, German Ambassador to Pakistan, who called on her in the Parliament House, today.

Madam Speaker said that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with Germany and emphasized the need for further consolidating the relationship between both the nations. She lauded the support of Government of Germany in various development projects being executed in different areas of Pakistan and expressed her optimism for the continuity of that support especially in the Group of Friends of Pakistan. She stressed for enhancing existing parliamentary ties and diversifying existing economic and commercial cooperation. She asked for the German support in overcoming the energy crisis. Madam Speaker also informed the German Ambassador about the creation of Women Parliamentary Caucus in National Assembly which was actively engaged in empowerment of women.

Madam Speaker said that Pakistan was committed to peace and stability in the region and elimination of extremism and terrorism. The Speaker said that the bane of extremism and terrorism could only be eliminated by addressing its root causes i.e poverty, unemployment, illiteracy and lack of basic amenities. Expressing her confidence, the Speaker said that the government would uproot the menace with the support of friendly countries. Apprising about the “Adoption of unanimous resolution by all political parties on the issues of national security and curbing extremism, the Speaker said that the adoption of this resolution was a great achievement of the Parliament, which will go a long way in resolving the issue of terrorism and extremism”.

Mr. Michael Koch acknowledged the concerns of Madam Speaker and said that Germany would extend its all-out support to Pakistan in addressing extremism and terrorism. He said that his government also attaches importance to its relations with Pakistan and would extend maximum diplomatic and economic support in diverse fields. The Ambassador agreed for exchange of parliamentary and trade delegation between both the countries. He informed the Speaker that German parliament was in process of establishing a Pak-German Parliamentary Friendship Group in German Parliament. This would pave the way for further consolidating the parliamentary ties with Pakistan.. He also extended invitation to Madam Speaker on behalf of Speaker German Parliament to visit Germany.

Later, Dr. Magdy Mahmoud Helmy Amer, Ambassador of Egypt called on Madam Speaker in Parliament House, today. While talking to the Egyptian Ambassador, Madam Speaker said that Pakistan and Egypt were tied in bonds of religion, history and culture and attaches great importance to its existing bilateral relations with the brotherly country Egypt.

She said that Egypt was an important ally of Pakistan in African continent which has stood by Pakistan in times of crisis. She said that both the countries were having strategic partnership in diverse fields which needed to be further enhanced for mutual benefit of both the countries. She informed the Egyptian Ambassador that government had devised pro-investment policies for foreign investment in various fields. She asked him to guide Egyptian entrepreneurs to invest in Pakistan especially in the rural areas of the country. She also expressed the need for enhancing bilateral parliamentary relations specially between the women parliamentarians of both the countries.

The Ambassador of Egypt said that Government of Egypt also values high its relations with Pakistan and would always support Pakistan on regional and internal forums. He expressed his government’s desire for inclusion in the Friends of Pakistan so that it could extend its support for the economic and infrastructure development in Pakistan. He said that Egypt was keen to share its experience in the fields of economic reforms and education sectors and had signed various memorandums of understanding with Pakistan in that regard. He also apprised the Madam Speaker about the establishment of branch of Al-Azhar University in Islamabad. He also extended invitation to Madam Speaker on behalf of Egyptian Speaker to visit Egypt which she accepted.

Islamabad, February 11, 2010 NA Speaker and Acting Speaker Condemn the Bomb Blasts in Bannu Police Line

NA SPEAKER AND ACTING SPEAKER CONDEMN THE BOMB BLASTS IN BANNU POLICE LINE

Islamabad; February 11, 2010. Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Acting Speaker National Assembly have strongly condemned bomb blasts at Bannu Police Line causing, loss of precious lives.

In their separate messages, the Speaker and Acting Speaker said that it was a shameful act of terrorism, which reflected inhumane and callous nature of the perpetrators. They said that the elements involved in such cowardice act were the enemies of the country and humanity. They said that terrorist wanted to disrupt the peace in the country and create terror and fear amongst the people but they will not succeed in their nefarious design. They called upon the law enforcing agencies to apprehend the criminals involved in this act of terrorism and bring them to justice.

The Speaker and Acting Speaker prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed souls in eternal peace and sympathized with the breaved families. They also wished speedy recovery to the injured.

Islamabad, February 11, 2010 NA Speaker Calls Active Role of Women in the National Development

NA SPEAKER CALLS ACTIVE ROLE OF WOMEN IN THE NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Islamabad February 11, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that women folk comprise more than 50% of the population of the country and their participation was imperative for the national development and prosperity. She said this in her message on the National Women Day being commemorating throughout Pakistan tomorrow.

Madam Speaker said that women participation in public affairs was central to the functioning and strengthening of democracy and struggle against the oppression. She said that it was the vision of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed to empower women so that they could better contribute in the national development. In realization of the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma, women have been sufficiently represented in the present parliament and opportunities were being provided to them for their enhanced role in the national development, she added.

Madam Speaker said that the present democratic setup was committed to bring change in the laws to provide safe working environment for women. She said that the parliament has passed “Protection against the harassment at work place bill 2009 recently. This law would help reducing gender gap and enable women to contribute to the national development with more confidence, she said. The Madam Speaker said that the present government was committed to women emancipation and their empowerment and had taken numbers of steps to empower the women folk and ensuring their role in social, economic and political sphere of the life.

She said that provision of basic health facilities and education to women was the top priority of the government and substantial fund has been allocated for this purpose in the current budget. She said that establishing of Women Parliamentary Caucus in the National Assembly was a significant achievement which has been formed with the objectives of protecting women rights and empowering them politically and economically.

Islamabad, February 9, 2010 Joint Statement by H.E. Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker, National Assembly of Pakistan and H.E. Dr. Ali Larijani, Speaker, Islamic Parliament of Iran

JOINT STATEMENT BY H.E. DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA, SPEAKER NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF PAKISTAN AND H.E. DR. ALI LARIJANI, SPEAKER ISLAMIC PARLIAMENT OF IRAN

Islamabad February 9, 2010: Following is the text of the joint statements issued on the conclusion of Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly's official visit to Iran according to fax message received from Embassy of Pakistan in Tehran.*

Joint Statement by H.E. Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker, National Assembly of Pakistan and H.E. Dr. Ali Larijani, Speaker, Islamic Parliament of Iran

At the official invitation of His Excellency Dr. Ali Larijani, Speaker of the Islamic Parliament of Iran, Her Excellency Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker of the National Assembly of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, leading a high-ranking delegation, visited the Islamic Republic of Iran.

During the course of her visit, Her Excellency Dr. Fehmida Mirza met with the Honourable Speaker of the Islamic Parliament of Iran as her counterpart, the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Members of the Women Parliamentary Faction and Iran-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship Group.

In light of the broad spectrum of issues discussed between the two speakers in a very friendly atmosphere, the two parties exchanged views on a wide variety of important matters of mutual interest centered on bilateral, regional and international developments. Within the scope of the longstanding course of relationship existing between the two Muslim nations, and with due regard to the good neighbourly relations, significance of continued fruitful bilateral consultations and the greater need for further strengthening of relations in various political, economic and cultural fields, the parties underlined their readiness for further expansion of relations and constructive contacts between the legislative bodies of the two countries. For this purpose Her Excellency Dr. Fehmida Mirza invited her counterpart to visit Pakistan. The two speakers:

i)     Stressed that parliamentary relations and people to people contacts between the two countries are the two key factors in strengthening relations between the two governments. To this end, they reiterated the need for enhanced cooperation and communication between the parliamentary standing committees, particularly security and foreign relations, economy, legal affairs, culture and education committees. The parties further underscored the importance of continued closer contacts between the women parliamentarians of the two countries and encouraged regular exchange of delegations for this purpose.

ii)     Declared their desire for further contacts and enhanced cooperation between the two parliaments in the international parliamentary forums, including Inter-Parliamentary Union, PUIC of the OIC Member States, Asian Parliamentary Assembly and other regional parliamentary bodies for reaching common positions on crucial international issues.

iii)     Agreed to enhance cooperation in the field of research on issues of common interest since being two important independent Islamic countries of the region they have significant academic, scientific and research base. For this purpose, the Islamic Parliament of Iran declared its readiness to make available to the National Assembly of Pakistan the researches undertaken by the Research Center of the Parliament on legislative and other related issues.

iv)     Considering the valuable parliamentary experiences of the two countries, agreed on exchanging such experiences and information between the two parliaments particularly concerning parliamentary management, lawmaking procedure, codification and ratification of laws on investment, border trades, judicial assistance, commercial and customs cooperation through holding regular meetings between the relevant experts of the two parliaments.

v)     Underlined the need for expanding and enhancing economic and commercial cooperation between the two countries commensurate with the high potentials existing in this field. They also supported taking all measures in this regard, particularly removal of impediments to trade to realize these potentials, since more trade rather than aid is the solution to the economic problems.

vi)     Underscored their deep commitment to eliminate terrorism and extremism, combat drug trafficking and organized crime, and promote socio-economic development in the region.

vii)     Underlined the need to settle all international disputes by peaceful means through dialogue and negotiations without the use of coercive measures, which could further destabilize the region.

viii)     Considered regional developments of crucial importance and underlined the need for exchange of views on such developments for strengthening peace, stability and security in the region.

ix)     Agreed to hold annually a joint meeting at the capitals of their countries in order to strengthen parliamentary relations as well as to play an active role in promoting parliamentary diplomacy with due respect to the parliamentary discussion of international cooperation.

x)     Underlined that only democracy provides an opportunity to the representatives of the people to understand and find solutions to both the existing and potential challenges. Further stressed that democracy was essential to combat terrorism.

Islamabad, February 8, 2010 Speaker and Acting Speaker Condole the Death of Veteran Politician Ajmal Khattak

SPEAKER AND ACTING SPEAKER CONDOLE THE DEATH OF VETERAN POLITICIAN AJMAL KHATTAK

Islamabad; February 08, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Acting Speaker National Assembly have condoled the passing away of veteran politician and noted poet and intellectual, Ajaml Khattak.

In their separate condolences messages to the bereaved family, the Speaker and Acting Speaker expressed their heartfelt grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Ajma Khattak. They paid rich tributes to his services in the fields of politics and literature. They termed his passing away a great loss for the country.

They prayed to Almighty to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant the courage to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss with equinity.

Islamabad, February 8, 2010 Pakistan Underline Need for Expansion of Friendly Ties: Supports Expension of Parliamentary Relations with Pakistan

PAKISTAN UNDERLINE NEED FOR EXPANSION OF FRIENDLY TIES: SUPPORTS EXPANSION OF PARLIAMENTARY RELATIONS WITH PAKISTAN

Islamabad February 8, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly met Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki in Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Tehran according to a message received from Pakistan Embassy in Tehran. Dr. Fehmida Mirza and Manouchehr Mottaki discussed various issues of mutual interests as well as latest regional developments.

While talking to the Iranian Foreign Minister, the Speaker said that Pakistan and Iran were sharing the common threat of extremism and terrorism.. She said that Pakistan would avert all threats posing to disrupt peace and stability of its brotherly country Iran.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that there was ample potential for expansion of mutual cooperation between both the countries which should be explored for mutual benefit. She stressed for enhancing cooperation in all sectors of economy specially the Iran-Pakistan Gas pipeline project which would help Pakistan to meet its energy constraints. The Speaker also congratulated Iran on the 31st victory anniversary of the Islamic Revolution in Iran and said that the revolution had not only brought about massive changes in the country but has also left extensive impacts on other Islamic states.

Manouchehr Mottaki said that Iran attaches great importance to its relations with Pakistan and wants further expansion through strategic and comprehensive. He also stressed for enhancing interaction between parliaments of both the countries. He called for settlement of regional contentious issues through negations. He also expressed his country’s desire for a stable and peaceful Afghanistan which would be beneficial for both Iran and Pakistan.

Later, Head of Iran-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship Group Ali Akbar Aqayee met Dr. Fehmida Mirza in Tehran. While talking to the Speaker, Ali Akbar Aqaee underlined that his colleagues in Iran's legislative body were keen to bolster ties and cooperation with the Pakistani Parliament. He, while referring to the historical and cultural commonalities of the two countries, said that the two countries' profound commonalities require further expansion of bilateral ties in different fields.

Head of Iran-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship Group said that the two sides enjoy abundant trade and commercial potentials for strengthening bilateral ties. He stressed that Iran's economic, industrial and technological progress has pave the way for developing brotherly ties between the two countries, and called on the two sides to exploit the opportunity through precise and detailed plans.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza while talking to the Head of Iran-Pakistan Parliamentary Friendship Group termed Iran as an important country in the region. She reiterated Pakistan’s desire to boost all-out relations with Iran, especially in economic and agricultural fields.

The Speaker stressed for enhancing parliamentary ties and exchange of parliamentary delegations between the two countries. She said that reciprocal visits by the two countries' lawmakers would serve the interests of the Iranian and Pakistani nations.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza also met Dr. Tayyiba Safaie, President of the Women Parliamentarians of Iran. Talking to Dr. Tayyiba, the Speaker said that women parliamentarians of Pakistan constitute 23.7% of the total membership of the parliament. She said that on her initiative a Caucus of women parliamentarians has been formed which has provided them a forum to rise above party politics to work for the betterment of the womenfolk. She said that women parliamentarians could play a vital role in challenges being faced by the country specially the war against terror and population explosion.

Dr. Tayyiba Safaie briefed the Speaker about the efforts of women parliamentarians of Iran in resolving the problems and addressing the grievances if Iranian women. She also underlined that the Iranian parliament had enacted various pro-women laws. She said that such laws commensurate with the injunctions of Islam. She agreed for regular interaction between women parliamentarians form both the countries.

Islamabad, February 5, 2010 NA Speaker Calls on Iranian President in Tehran

NA SPEAKER CALLS ON IRANIAN PRESIDENT IN TEHRAN

Islamabad February 5, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker, National Assembly of Pakistan called on Iranian President Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, in Presidential Palace in Tehran. While talking to the Iranian President, Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with Iran and has a strong desire to further consolidate the existing political and economic ties.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Iran and Pakistan have commonalities of Religion, history and culture. She said that the bane of extremism and terrorism was a common threat to the stability and progress of the region. She called for evolving a joint strategy to counter that common treat. She apprised the President about the military initiative against the deviant elements in the tribal belt of Pakistan bordering Afghanistan. She said that the ongoing military operation was being conducted by Pakistan with its own resources which should be supplemented by all the friendly countries.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that government of Pakistan has created a conducive environment for investment in all sectors of economy. She underlined the need to boost commercial and economic ties between both the countries by removing impediments in bilateral trade and investment. She expressed the need for speedy implementation of the Iran-Pakistan Gas pipeline project which would help Pakistan to meet its energy requirements. She termed the Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline project, an opening of new avenues of progress and prosperity in both the countries.

President of Iran Dr. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said that Iran also values high its relations with Pakistan and wanted to further strengthen the bilateral relations. He said that Pakistan was an important country in the region due to its geo-strategic position. He agreed that Iran would support Pakistan in its struggle against internal and external challenges. He said that Muslim Ummah was going through difficulties and stressed the need to forge unity amongst the Muslim states to counter their problems and misperceptions about Islam. He agreed for collaboration in defense, energy, education and other sectors of economy. Iranian President suggested for strengthening of OIC, ECO and trilateral mechanism between Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan. Both the leaders also agreed for strengthening of parliamentary ties between Iran and Pakistan.

Later, Dr. Fehmida Mirza and her parliamentary delegation proceeded to Mashad. The Governor of the Mashad Province extended a red carpet welcome to the Speaker and the Parliamentary delegation at the Mashad Airport. The Governor of Mashad called on Speaker National Assembly and discussed matters of mutual interest of the both the countries. Later he hosted a reception in the honour of Speaker National Assembly and the Parliamentary delegation.

Islamabad, February 4, 2010 NA Speaker Dr. Fehmida Mirza Meets with her Iranian: Counterpart in Tehran

NA SPEAKER DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA MEETS WITH HER IRANIAN: COUNTERPART IN TEHRAN

Islamabad February 4, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker, National Assembly of Pakistan held a meeting with Speaker of the Iranain Majlis-e-shoora Dr. Ali Larijani, in Tehran today. During the meeting the entire range of bilateral relations between the two countries were discussed particularly the need to remove impediments to trade, implementation of Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA). They also stressed for more frequent contacts between Parliamentarians of both the countries, business communities and visa facilitation for the businessmen of both the countries..

Dr. Fehmida Mirza emphasized the need for greater cooperation in energy, electricity, transport and communication sectors for mutual benefits of both the countries. The Speaker underlined the need for early completion of Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline project to meet the energy requirements of Pakistan.

The speaker also expressed the need for increase of contacts between the Parliamentarians and political leadership of the two countries. Dr. Fehmida Mirza stressed for enhancing the interaction between women parliamentarians of Pakistan and Iran.

The Speaker highlighted the efforts of the government of Pakistan to eliminate extremism and terrorism from the country. She said that Pakistan was fighting against the terrorism to secure the whole region and world. She said that the Government was committed to eliminate the terrorism and entire nation is united to curb the menace of extremism. She said that the Parliament had also passed unanimous resolutions in this regard. She apprised her Iranian counterpart about the formation and functioning of the National Assembly and its standing committees.

Dr. Larijani, Speaker Majlis-e-Shooray Islam Iran appreciated the role of Pakistan and assured Madam Speaker Iran’s support to Pakistan’s efforts in this regard. The two sides also reviewed the regional situation and in this context emphasized the need for bringing peace and stability in Afghanistan.

Later on, Dr. Ali Larijani hosted a banquet in honour of the Speaker. Leading a 10-memebr delegation, the Speaker arrived in Tehran on Wednesday evening on a 6-day visit. This was her first official visit to Iran.

Islamabad, February 4, 2010 Peaceful Settlement of Kashmir Issue in Accordance with the Aspirations of Kashmir People; Imperative for the Peace and Development of the Region: Sayes Speaker NA

PEACEFUL SETTLEMENT OF KASHMIR ISSUE IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE ASPIRATIONS OF KASHMIR PEOPLE; IMPERATIVE FOR THE PEACE AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE REGION: SAYS SPEAKER NA

Islamabad February 4, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that the peaceful settlement of Kashmir issue in accordance with the aspirations of Kashmiri people was imperative for the peace and development of the region. She said that Pakistan would extend its unwavering moral, political and diplomatic support to the just struggle of the Kashmiri people for their unalienable right of self determination, as enshrined in the UN Charter and relevant UN resolutions. She said this in her message on the Kashmir Solidarity Day being commemorated on 5thFebruary, 2010.

Madam Speaker said that this day serves as an opportunity to recognize the countless sacrifices of the brave people of Kashmir who have remained resolute and steadfast against the oppression, spreading more than six decades. She said that Pakistan remains firmly committed to finding a just and peaceful solution of the Kashmir dispute in accordance with the aspirations of the people of Kashmir.

She assured the Kashmiri people, of Pakistan’s continued moral, political and diplomatic support at all regional and international forums till realization of their objective. She called upon the United Nations and International Community to play their due role in bringing an end to the repression, violence and human rights violations being committed against the people of Kashmir.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza called for an end to the human rights violations in the occupied Kashmir. She also urged for association of Kashmiri people in the dialogue process so that the dispute comes to its peaceful settlement in accordance with the aspirations and wishes of Kashmiri people.

Islamabad, February 3, 2010 Speaker NA has said that Cancer is a Leading Cause of Deaths

SPEAKER NA HAS SAID THAT CANCER IS A LEADING CAUSE OF DEATHS

Islamabad February 3, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that cancer is a leading cause of deaths globally and needed stringent awareness campaign to save the lives of the people who died from this fatal disease. She said this in her message on the World Cancer Day being observed through out the globe tomorrow.

She said that the Cancer Day was observed to create awareness about the diseases and prevention aspects.

The Speaker said cancer is leading cause of deaths globally and more than 70 percent of all cancer deaths occur in low income countries, where resources for prevention diagnosis and treatment of cancer were limited. She said that tobacco was the main cause of cancer and many cancers can be prevented by avoiding tobacco smoke. She said that healthy diet, physical activities and living in clean atmosphere has also proved helpful in reducing the risk factors of cancer and other chronic diseases. She said that a significant proportion of cancer can be cured if it was detected at early stages.

She said that inequalities between developed and developing counties in term of cancer prevention, treatment and cure should be addressed. She also called upon the NGOs involved in Medical field to persuade people to take early medication to curtail cancer after it has been diagnosed.

She asked the Ministry of Health and the provincial health departments to provide diagnostic and treatment facilities for cancer at all the hospitals specially in the rural areas on priority basis.

Islamabad, February 2, 2010 A Eight Member Pakistani Parliamentary Delegation Leaves for Iran

A EIGHT MEMBER PAKISTANI PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION LEAVES FOR IRAN

Islamabad February 02, 2010: A 08-member parliamentary delegation headed by Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly will visit Iran from 3rd to 8th February, 2010. The delegation will leave from Quaid-e-Azam International Airport Karachi for Iran tomorrow i.e. 3rdFebruary 2010 and will return to Pakistan on 8 th February, 2010.

The Parliamentary Delegation is visiting Iran on the invitation of Speaker of Iranian Majlis-e-Shoora Islami (Parliament), Ali Ahmed Larijani. The Delegation during its stay in Iran, would meet Iranian Spiritual Leader Ayatoullah Ali Khamenei, President Islamic Republic of Iranian, Speaker of the Iranain Majlis-e-Shoora Islami and Women Parliamentarian of Majlis-e-Shoora Islami, Iran. The Delegation would also visit the Mausoleum of great spiritual leader of Iran Imam Khomeini to pay homage and lay floral wreath. The visit will strengthen bilateral relations between the two fraternal countries and enhance mutual cooperation in all sectors of economy. The visit will also provide an opportunity to Pakistani women parliamentarians to interact with their Iranian counterparts and exchange views on women related issues.

The delegation comprises of MNAs Riaz Hussain Pirzada, Syed Javed Hussain, Mr. Nadeem Ahmed Gondal, Roshan-ud-Din Junejo, Syed Nasir Ali Shah, Dr. Donya Aziz and Ms. Kishwer Zehra.

Islamabad, January 28, 2010 French Ambassador Calls on NA Speaker: Speaker Chairs Meeting of Women Parliamentary Caucus

FRENCH AMBASSADOR CALLS ON NA SPEAKER: SPEAKER CHAIRS MEETING OF WOMEN PARLIAMENTARY CAUCUS

Islamabad; January 28, 2010: The Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza has said that Pakistan attaches great importance to existing relations with France and would like to further consolidate those relations through economic cooperation and people-to-people contact. She further said that both the countries also share perceptions on global and regional issues. She said this while talking to Daniel Jouanneau, Ambassador of France, who called on her in the Parliament House today.

The Madam Speaker said that Pakistan had always pursued the policy of peace which was essential for progress and prosperity in the region. She said that terrorism and extremism were the biggest threats to peace and stability and it can be countered by closer cooperation amongst the stakeholders. The Madam Speaker said that terrorism and extremism can be curbed by addressing the root causes of this menace and underlined the need for enhanced regional and global support to curb this evil.

She said that majority of people in Pakistan were progressive and that is why they have voted for progressive forces in the Parliament. The Speaker said that the Parliament was a sovereign body and it wanted all institutions of the state to work within their sphere. She also underlined the need for enhanced interaction of the parliamentarians of the two countries for strengthening of bilateral relations.

The Ambassador of France, Daniel Jouanneau said that France wanted democracy and democratic institutions in Pakistan to flourish and strengthen. He said that France also wanted to strengthen cooperation with Pakistan in all sectors of the economy. He said that Pakistan was rendering great sacrifices in the war against terrorism and its role was commendable.

Earlier, Madam Speaker chaired the meeting of the Women Parliamentary Caucus in Parliament House. The meeting was given a detailed briefing about the Gender Action Reforms Plan by the Ministry of Women Development. The Secretary M/o Women Development apprised the Caucus that National Plan of Action for Women was in the process of revision to know the real achievements of the Ministry for women empowerment in the country. Madam Speaker asked the Ministry to prepare a comprehensive briefing on the reform process with special focus on the achievement of Millennium Development Goals and other international commitments.

Islamabad, January 27, 2010 Action President and Acting Speaker Felicitate Lt. Gen. (R) Abdul Qadir Baloch, MNA

ACTING PRESIDENT AND ACTING SPEAKER FELICITATE LT. GEN.(R) ABDUL QADIR BALOCH, MNA

Islamabad; January 27, 2010: Acting President Dr. Fehmida Mirza and Acting Speaker Faisal Karim Kundi have congratulated Lt. general (R) Abdul Qadir Baloch on his election as Member of the National Assembly.

In their separate congratulatory messages to the newly elected MNA, the Acting President and the Acting Speaker said that his election as a Member of National Assembly was an evidence of the trust and confidence reposed in him by the people of his constituency and his party leadership. They expressed hope that Mr. Abdul Qadir Baloch will come up to expectations of his constituents and will fulfill his responsibilities in accordance with the constitution of Pakistan and will work for the promotion of the democracy in the country.

Islamabad, January 24, 2010 The Acting President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan has Expressed Sorrow and Grief over the Sad Demise of the Renowned Journalist Arshad Ahmad Haqani

THE ACTING PRESIDENT OF THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF PAKISTAN HAS EXPRESSED SORROW AND GRIEF OVER THE SAD DEMISE OF THE RENOWNED JOURNALIST ARSHAD AHMAD HAQANI

Islamabad, January 24 2010: Dr Fehmida Mirza , the Acting President of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, has expressed sorrow and grief over the sad demise of the renowned journalist Arshad Ahmad Haqani.

In her condolence message the Acting President said that the late Arshad Ahmed Haqani was a journalist of high calibre who has always given his candid advices and suggestions to the people and the government and on issues of national importance and his writings were always given weightage amongst literary and intellectual circles of the society. Arshad Ahmed Haqani, has left indelible mark in the annals of history and will be remembered for long times to come, the Acting President said.

She prayed for the departed soul and sympathised with bereaved family. “ May Allah rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant the bereaved family the courage to bear the loss. Ameen”, the message said.

Islamabad, January 24, 2010 Speaker National Assembly to Act as President

SPEAKER NATIONAL ASSEMBLY TO ACT AS PRESIDENT

Islamabad January 24, 2010: In pursuance of Article 49(2) of the Constitution of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly would perform the functions of President of Islamic Republic of Pakistan w.e.f today i.e. 24th January, 2010 in the absence of Mr. Asif Ali Zardari, President of Islamic Republic of Pakistan who has proceeded abroad on an official visit and the Chairman Senate who has also proceeded abroad on an official visit. Dr. Fehmida Mirza will remain Acting President till the return of President Asif Ali Zardari from abroad.

Islamabad, January 21, 2010 IT is High Time for International Community and FODP to Fullfill their Promises: Says Speaker NA

IT IS HIGH TIME FOR INTERNATIOINAL COMMUNITY AND FODP TO FULLFILL THEIR PROMISES: SAYS SPEAKER NA

Islamabad: January 21, 2010: The Speaker National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza has said that Pakistan was committed to fight against terrorism and it was high time for international community and Friends of Democratic Pakistan (FODP) to fulfill their promises to support Pakistan in its efforts to eliminate terrorism and rehabilitation of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). She said this while talking to the UN delegation headed by Jean-Maurice Ripert, Special Envoy of the UN Secretary General to support the humanitarian work of the UN in Pakistan and Special Adviser to the group of Friends of Democratic Pakistan (FODP), which called on her in the Parliament House today.

The Speaker said that military operations against terrorist in Swat and Waziristan had the backing of entire nation and Parliament had passed unanimous resolution to the effect. She said that Pakistan was fighting war against terrorist to secure the whole world from the menace of terrorism and extremism. She said that time was running out fast and there was urgent need to start developmental work in FATA and other war affected areas. She said it was high time that the international community and Friends of Democratic Pakistan (FODP) to come forward and assist Pakistan for rehabilitation of IDPs, enabling them to stand on strong economic footings. The Speaker also apprised the delegation about the efforts of the parliamentarians regarding IDPs rehabilitation, their visits to the IDPs camps for the delivery of goods and the Speaker’s Relief Fund for the IDPs. The Speaker also appreciated the UN assistance for rehabilitation of IDPs.

The head of the delegation Mr. Jean-Maurice Ripert, said that the world community was impressed with the success of military operation in Swat and now the world community will start their developmental activities there for IDPs and added that from the coming year the world body will start $ 1 billion program for the IDPs.. He assured the Madam Speaker of the good will of international community and Friends of Democratic Pakistan (FODP). He also assured the Madam Speaker that United Nations assistance in Pakistan will continue for the people of Pakistan and UN offices will also continue working here. He also assured the Madam Speaker that he will convey to UN and FODP to fulfill their promises regarding the assistance for rehabilitation and developmental work in the affected areas.

Islamabad, January 20, 2010 Pakistani Ambassadorin Saudi Arabia and Ambassador of Iran Call on the Speaker NA

PAKISTANI AMBASSADOR IN SAUDI ARABIA AND AMBASSADOR OF IRAN CALL ON THE SPEAKER NA

Islamabad: January 20, 2010: Pakistan values high its relations with Saudi Arabia and both the countries are tied in the eternal bonds of religion, history and culture. Saudi Arabia has always supported Pakistan in difficult times and is expected to play a leading role to support Pakistan on all international forums. These views were expressed by Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly, while talking to Umer Khan Ali Sherzai, Ambassador of Pakistan in Saudi Arabia, who called on her in Parliament House, today.

The Madam Speaker said that Pakistan wanted stability and peace in the region because it was necessary for prosperity and development of the region. She said that Saudi Arabia has always played pragmatic role in promoting stability and development of the region. She said that the region’s peace and progress needed collective efforts and Saudi Arabia has an important role in this regard.

The Speaker underlined the need for greater exchange of parliamentary delegations of both the countries for strengthening relations and establishing people to people contacts.

Pakistani Ambassador in Saudi Arabia, Umer Khan Ali Sherzai, said that relations between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are based on the strong bonds of religion, history and culture and the exchange of parliamentary delegations will further strengthen these relations. He said that there was a big Pakistani community contributing towards the economic development of Saudi Arabia. He said that the economic cooperation between the two countries will further be strengthened through enhanced interaction between the representatives and parliamentarians of both the countries..

Later on Tallking to the Ambassador of Iran Mashallah Shakeri Mirza the speaker said that Iran and Pakistan have too much in common and they could use their proximity and commonalities for the benefit of the people of both the countries. She said that there was a vast opportunities for Iranian investors to invest in the agro-based industries in Pakistan while Pakistan can provide enough manpower to Iran for its industrial development. She said that Pakistan was a big market and the Iranian investors could benefit from it. She said that early completion of gas- pipeline would open new avenues of progress and prosperity in the region. Pak-Iran

The Ambassador of Iran Masha’allah Shakeri said that Iran wanted to see Pakistan strong and prosperous. He said that his country would extend every support to Pakistan to overcome the challenges it was confronting right now.He also extended the invitation of the speaker of Iran to Madam Speaker to visit Iran.

Islamabad, January 20, 2010 Speaker NA Chairing a Meeting of the General Assembly of the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus

SPEAKER NA CHAIRING A MEETING OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE WOMEN'S PARLIAMENTARY CAUCUS

Islamabad 20 January, 2010: Cottage industry was key to women empowerment and a major source of employment in rural areas of Pakistan, said the Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza while chairing a meeting of the General Assembly of the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus in the Parliament House today.

The Speaker said that development of cottage industry and home made products and handlooms was essential for improving the standard and quality of life in rural areas as it was the main source of employment opportunities specially women folk there.

The Madam Speaker apprised the parliamentarians of her recent visit to India and her participation in the Speakers Conference of the Commonwealth Countries and added that women parliamentarians can play important and active role in diplomacy and conflict resolutions. She said that formation of Women Caucus in our Parliament was widely applauded by many women parliamentarians and they wanted to formulate such caucus in their own countries.

The meeting reviewed the performance of women police stations and underlined the need for implementation of all the recommendations made by the WPC. The meeting also reviewed the status of various bills relating to protection of women rights, how to expedite their passage and remove obstacles in this regard.. The meeting resolved that protection of women everywhere, specifically at home and in work place was essential for their empowerment and therefore this protection must be ensured. It was also decided to hold a women convention on the occasion of International Women Day that will be March 8th 2010, to highlight the women issues and gender equality.

Earlier, Rauf Khalid, Pattern in Chief of National Institute of Cultural Studies briefed the meeting regarding promotion of Pakistani Arts and Culture and cottage industries in Swat and Malakand and also to provide trainings and consultancy facilities to the IDPs.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Donya Aziz, Acting Secretary of WPC, MNAs. Mrs. Samina Mushtaq Pugganwala, Mrs. Fouzia Ejaz, Ms. Bushra Gohar, Mrs. Farhat Khan, Ms. Shagufta Sadiq, Ms. Imrana Saeed Jamil, Dr. Nahid Shahid Ali, Ms. Sughra Imam, Mrs. Farzana Mushtaq Ghani, Ms. Shahnaz Wazir Ali, Zile-e-Huma, Ms. Jamila Gillani, Ms. Kishwar Zehra, Ms. Yasmeen Rehman, Ms. Shakeela Khanam Rashid, Dr. Azra Fazal Pechuho and Ms. Nighat Parveen.

Islamabad, January 19, 2010 Ambassador of Turkmenistan Calls on the Madam Speaker

AMBASSADOR OF TURKMENISTAN CALLS ON THE MADAM SPEAKER

Islamabad 19 January, 2010: Speaker National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza has said that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with Turkmenistan and wanted to further strengthen these relations through enhanced parliamentary exchanges and economic cooperation. She said this while talking to Sapar Berdiniyazov, Ambassador of Turkmenistan, who called on her in the Parliament House today.

The Speaker said that Pakistan wanted to strengthen relations with Turkmenistan and solidify it through economic cooperation and broad based people to people contact. She underlined the importance of enhanced parliamentary exchanges for bringing the two countries closer. The Speaker said that democracy presented best solution to all our problems and therefore both the countries needed to strengthen their parliaments through sharing experiences.

The Speaker said that closer economic ties were also necessary to further solidify our ties and at the same helping progress and prosperity in both the countries. She said that all the commonalities of culture and values between the two countries needed to be encouraged and developed .

The Ambassador of Turkmenistan, Sapar Berdiniyazov said that the culture and values of people in Pakistan and Turkmenistan have much commonalities and could be utilized for strengthening mutual relations and for the benefit of the people. He said that much of the surplus gas and electricity of Turkmenistan could be marketed in Pakistan for the benefit of both the countries. He assured the Madam Speaker that his country will do all possible for speeding up the pace of economic development and progress in Pakistan.

Islamabad, January 19, 2010 Speaker and Deputy Speaker NA have Condoled the Passing Away of Inqilab Marti, Vetran Journalist and Chief Editor of Daily Millat

SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER NA HAVE CONDOLED THE PASSING AWAY OF INQILAB MARTI VETRAN JOURNALIST AND CHIEF EDITOR OF DAILY MILLAT

Islamabad; January 19, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly have condoled the passing away of Inqilab Marti, vetran Journalist and Chief Editor of Daily Millat.

In their separate messages, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker expressed grief and sorrow over the passing away of Inqailab Marti. They said that he was a seasoned journalist who always struggled for the independence and freedom of media in the country. His services will be remembered for a long time to come. They prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant the courage to bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss with equanimity.

The Speaker and Deputy Speaker have also condoled the death of Intellectual and Educationist Professor Masood Khawaja. They paid rich tributes to Professor Masood Khawaja for his life long contributions in the field of literature and education. They prayed for departed soul and sympathized with bereaved family.

Islamabad, January 18, 2010 Meeting of Working Council of Women’s Parliamentary Caucus held under the Chairperson of Speaker NA

MEETING OF WORKING COUNCIL OF WOMEN'S PARLIAMENTARY CAUCUS HELD UNDER THE CHAIRPERSON OF SPEAKER NA

Islamabad January 18, 2010: The meeting of Working Council of Women’s Parliamentary Caucus held under the Chairperson of Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly in Parliament House today.

The Speaker apprised the meeting about her recent visit to India and informed the Working Council about her meetings with the Indian Speaker and Speakers of other Commonwealth Countries. She also informed the meeting about the idea of Regional Women’s Caucus she presented in 20th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Commonwealth Countries, which was appreciated not only by the Speaker of Lok Sabah but also other participating Presiding Officers of various Parliaments..

The Speaker recommended to form sub-committees of the Caucus in order to better follow up on various steps so far taken by the Caucus including police reforms, acid burning victims, first women’s Bank, IDPs, NCSW, CEDAW Report. She said that Caucus must facilitate the idea of women entrepreneurship by making its links with different countries.

The meeting decided to circulate bills pertaining to women in the members of the Caucus to seek their suggestions and to engage the Institute of Cultural Studies in order to promote women artisans of Pakistan. The meeting also decided to publish an annual report of the Caucus performance.

The Acting Secretary of Women Parliamentary Caucus briefed the meeting regarding the National Convention of Women Parliamentarians, she suggested that propose convention could be held in March this year.

MNA Bushra Gohar pointed out stalemate on the issues of Domestic Violence Bill and other bills relating women issues. She was of the view that Caucus should take a clear stance in this regard.

The meeting was attended by MNAs. Dr. Donya Aziz, Nuzhat Sadiq, Dr. Azra Fazal, Ms. Bushra Gohar, Ms. Asia Nasir, Ms. Sherrin Arshad and Dr. Naheed Shahid Ali.

Islamabad, January 14, 2010 Senator Mian Raza Rabbani Calls on Speaker NA

SENATOR MIAN RAZA RABBANI CALLS ON SPEAKER NA

Islamabad January 14, 2010: Senator Mian Raza Rabbani, Chairman Parliamentary Committees on National Security and Constitutional Reforms called on the Madam Speaer, Dr. Fehmida Mirza in her chamber in the Parliament House today and briefed her about the proceedings of the meetings of Parliamentary Committees on Constitutional Reforms and National Security.

Briefing the Madam Speaker about the progress made by the Constitutional Reforms Committee, he said that the committee was heading towards the completion of its work with tremendous speed, adding that the committee is holding meetings regularly and the process of consultations is on to reach consensus on all issues of national importance. He expressed hope that the task will be accomplished very soon. He also apprised the Madam Speaker about the proceedings and progress regarding the Parliamentary Committee on National Security. He said that the committee has finalized its recommendations with consensus of the representatives of all political parties that will be communicated to the government very soon.

The Madam Speaker expressed satisfaction over pace of the proceedings and work both of the committees.

Islamabad, January 7, 2010 Democracy Creates Enabling Environment for International Peace and Reconciliation: Says NA Speaker Dr. Fehmida Mirza

DEMOCRACY CREATES ENABLING ENVIRONMENT FOR INTERNATIONAL PEACE AND RECONCILIATION: SAYS NA SPEAKER DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA

Islamabad January 7, 2010: A new era of peace, progress and prosperity will dawn in Pakistan and India after resolving their contentious issues and coming closer to each other, said Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan, in New Delhi, yesterday.

Addressing Pakistani Community there, the Speaker said that Parliamentarians of Pakistan and India can play a significant role in bringing the two countries closer and resolving all contentious issues between the two countries. She said that it was high time to revive the Pak India forum of Parliamentarians and play its due role. The Speaker said that the Parliamentarians of South Asia should push for the re-allocation of the resources and create opportunities for our coming generations. She said that democracy was best solution to our problems because democracy promotes dignity and fundamental rights of individuals, social justice and creates enabling environment for international peace and reconciliation.

The Speaker said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto strived for such enabling environment for peace and her legacy of reconciliation remains the corner-stone of Pakistan’s democratic set-up today. This policy of reconciliation must be implemented to our region in particular and to the world in general, she said. Speaker said that Pakistan was committed to achieving these goals and fostering closer ties with all its neighbors. She said that it was important to keep channels of communication open as dialogue was the only way forward to resolving all outstanding issues between India and Pakistan.

She said that collaboration and cooperation between India and Pakistan was important to defeat the evil forces of terrorism. She reiterated that the commitment of the Parliament, the Government and people of Pakistan to fight and defeat terrorism as well as help in building an environment of peace and stability for the prosperity of the people of the region.

Islamabad, January 5, 2010 Speech Text: 20th Conference of Speaker and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth

SPEECH TEXT: 20TH CONFERENCE OF SPEAKER AND PRESIDING OFFICER OF THE COMMONWEALTH

Role of Speaker As a Mediator

Hounourable Chairperson!

Fellow Speakers and Presiding Officers, Delegates!

Ladies and Gentlemen!

I am privileged to join you all in the historic city of Delhi for the 20th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth.

My deepest gratitude is due to my sister, the Honourable Speaker of the Lok Sabha Shrimati Meera Kumar for inviting me to this Forum and extending her warm hospitality to me and my delegation.

Ladies and Gentlemen!

I’ve heard with great interest the incisive presentation regarding “the Role of Speaker as a Mediator”.

Such a role has effectively matured over time to become pivotal for the smooth functioning of established parliamentary democracies.

In fact, this evolving role is even more critical for the survival of nascent democracies where the parliamentary institutions may still be in the formative phase.

Although in the Westminster style Parliamentary Democracies, which are commonly in vogue in the Commonwealth, the respective Constitutions do not usually assign any such powers to the Presiding Officers which could enable their offices to intervene in case of any political deadlock. However, in view of the unwavering impartiality and absolute neutrality expected from the Chair, their role often becomes much more diversified and multi-dimensional than envisioned in the written code.

In deed, it is the utmost fairness of the Chair that earns it the respect and trust of the House and from this very trust, that the Chair draws all its strength. The Westminster model desires a Speaker to abdicate the Party affiliation soon after his election to the Chair, cease to attend any political or executive meetings and ensure a clear visibility of his or her neutrality through words and deeds. Only then can the Speaker become the cementing bond of the inherently diversely opinionated bastion of democracy --- the House.

We, as presiding Officers are often reminded of the words of Sir William Lenthall, the legendary Speaker of the Commons, who dared to defy King Charles-I in defence of his five MPs by saying:

“May it please Your Majesty, I have neither eyes to see, nor tongue to speak in this place, but as the House is pleased to direct me, whose servant I am here."

Such daring --- and often defying --- actions of the Presiding Officers remain in continuous demand in developing democracies, where the treasury and the opposition often lock horns, igniting the Executive to sort out matters by the use of power.

On the other hand, an office commanding the confidence and respect of all political divides can also be of great benefit in acute crisis when raised political temperatures tend to become a threat to the system itself. This has been a case in point in my country, where democracy has often been derailed and Parliament put under suspension for long spells of time.

The Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in its Article 53 provides for the office and election of the Speaker of the National Assembly. Although, under the Constitution, there are no specific qualifications required for a Member of the Lower House to become the Speaker, however, in view of the honour, dignity and importance of this office, seasoned, mutually respected and generally accepted Member is nominated for the office, who is supposed to have an understanding of the Constitution, Rules of Business of the House and parliamentary practices and procedures.

This consideration is only made to ensure that the person sitting on the Highest podium of the Land is not only seen but actually acts as a guardian, protector and custodian of the rights, privileges and honour of the House and its Members.

And for this purpose, the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the National Assembly, as drafted and approved by the House under Article 67 of the Constitution, vest considerable administrative and other powers in the office of the Speaker. For example:

— The Ruling of the Speaker is considered the final word, which cannot be challenged, except on motion for rescinding it.

— The issue of admissibility as well as the permission to raise a Point of Order, Questions, Supplementary Questions, Calling Attention Notices, Questions of Privilege, Adjournment Motions and Resolutions etc are all decided exclusively by the Speaker

— The Speaker decides and allocates time for debate on any matter of public or national importance.

— He can order the removal of strangers from the proceedings.

— Can direct the withdrawal of Member, whose conduct is grossly disorderly and can even suspend a Member from the service of the Assembly by naming him, who disregards the authority of the Speaker.

— The Speaker heads two very important Committees of the House, namely the Business Advisory Committee and the Finance Committee. He also chairs the Council of the Chairmen of Standing Committees of the National Assembly.

All such powers of the Speaker not only ensure the smooth functioning of the House but also authorize the Chair to protect the rights and privileges of the Members. In this manner, these powers in fact strengthen the Speaker’s mediatory role viz-a-viz various State institutions. Here, it is important to note that under the Rules:

— All law-enforcing agencies are bound to intimate the Speaker in case any Member of the House is arrested on any charge

— These agencies are barred from arresting any Member from within the precincts of the Assembly or serving them with any legal notice without the permission of the Speaker

— The Speaker is authorized to issue a production order for any detained member, who is accused of a non-bailable offence, enabling him to attend the proceedings of the House and the Government is bound to produce such a Member before the House.

This particular Rule has been of immense political importance in the parliamentary history of Pakistan as at times, the Speaker has implemented this Rule against the wishes of the Government of the Day. But at the same time, such Rulings of the Chair have reinforced the authority of the Speaker and reaffirmed the confidence of the Members in this august office.

May I also add here that this power of the Speaker to order the production of a Member to attend the session of the Assembly is a unique case in Pakistan since no where else does the Presiding Officer of any Chamber enjoy such authority.

Honourable Chairperson!

During the two years of my Speakership, such powers and my own neutral conduct have also enabled me to act as a bridge to achieve consensus among various groups within the House.

For example in July 2008, the Parliament authorized the Speaker, through a unanimous Resolution, to constitute a Joint Committee of the Parliament for drafting a Roadmap for the Government to fight-out terrorism in the country. It was indeed a very delicate and sensitive matter. I consulted all parliamentary groups and in light of these consultations, constituted a Committee which was readily accepted.

Similarly, the same exercise was carried out when both the Houses again authorized the Speaker to form yet another Committee to review and propose comprehensive amendments in the Constitution. And reviewing the Constitution, as you are all aware, is no light affair.

This responsibility was also amicably fulfilled without any objection from any Member of the House.

Yet another proud example of our Parliament is the constitution of a bipartisan and across the board Women’s Parliamentary Caucus under my patronage. This has been a proud achievement for me as a woman, and as a Speaker.

All women Members of both the Houses readily agreed to my proposal of jointly working for women related issues within and outside the House, irrespective of their respective party affiliations. This could only be made possible since they have confidence in the impartiality of the office of the Speaker.

Having said that, I genuinely feel that the office of the Speaker can still play a far more dynamic mediatory role in hours of crisis. So often have we seen in numerous fragile democracies of Asia, Africa and the Caribbean that the undemocratic forces and military dictators only get a chance to intervene and derail democracy when the polarized political divide fails to provide neutral mediatory grounds.

In all such cases, the power tussle amongst the President, Prime Minister, the Military or the Judiciary has resulted into break-down of the entire system as these opposing parties have failed to resolve their disputes through a consensus mediator.

I, therefore, genuinely feel that the Presiding Officers of the Parliament can contribute immensely since they enjoy the confidence of all the parties, are not into the power-game and have no stakes in this “tug of war”.

This is exactly the case in countries like Sweden, where after the adoption of the 1974 Instrument of the Government, many important powers of the Monarch were transferred to the Speaker. These include negotiations concerning the formation of a new government after every election and nominating a Prime Minister. Off course it means mediating a consensus government in case of a hung Parliament.

Mr. Chairperson!

I would now like to draw attention of this distinguished gathering to yet another possible meaningful mediatory role of the Speaker, and that is during the inter-governmental and inter-state conflicts. Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru once said and I quote:

“The Speaker represents the freedom of the House and because the House represents the nation, in a particular way, the Speaker becomes the symbol of the nation’s freedom and liberty.”

Such a symbol of a nation’s freedom can surely be an asset in seeking sustainable solutions to the disputes between different nations as well. In recent times, we have seen in our region in particular and in the developing countries in general, that the absence of democratic institutions enabled many “non-state actors” to act on their own and further aggravate the situation. This can only be curtailed if we allow the chosen representatives of our respective people to engage in dialogue on regular basis, understand each others’ positions, dare to cross over the rigid governmental positions and seek consensus out of conflict.

And in this respect, we --- the Speakers and the Presiding Officers --- who, command the unique confidence of all cross-shades of our respective political divide, are best placed to draw such common grounds despite our respective mutual differences. Please don’t forget that if “cricket diplomacy” can work in this region, so can, and should, the “parliamentary diplomacy”.

As fellow Speakers, we must all speak the language of our people, which is the same everywhere --- the language of peace.

With these words, Ladies and Gentlemen, I thank you all

Islamabad, January 4, 2010 NA Speaker Dr. Fehmida Mirza to Attend 20th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Commonwealth Countries at New Delhi (INDIA) from 4th to 8th January, 2010

NA SPEAKER DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA TO ATTEND 20TH CONFERENCE OF SPEAKERS AND PRESIDING OFFICERS OF COMMONWEALTH COUNRIES AT NEW DELHI (INDIA) FROM 4TH TO 8TH JANUARY, 2010

Islamabad January 4, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan has left today to attend 20th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of Commonwealth being held at New Delhi, India from 4th to 8th January, 2010.

The Commonwealth Speakers Conference will commence from 5th January, 2010, with the key note address by the Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh. During her stay in India the Madam Speaker will meet with the Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Parliaments of Commonwealth countries. The conference venue will be an opportunity for the Speaker to exchange views with parliamentarians of commonwealth countries and project Pakistan’s soft image. The Speaker’s visit will also help in promoting peace and stability in the region. The Speaker will arrive back home on 9th January, 2010.

Islamabad, January 4, 2010 Dr. Fehmida Mirza Calls for Forging Unity to Face the Challenges being Faced by the Country

DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA CALLS FOR FORGING UNITY TO FACE THE CHALLENGES BEING FACED BY THE COUNTRY

Islamabad January 4, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was a visionary who will live forever in the hearts minds of the people of Pakistan. She said this in her message on the 82nd birth Anniversary of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s being observed tomorrow.

The Madam Speaker said that Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto wanted to make Pakistan invincible and prosperous country where the will of people will reign. Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that on the birth anniversary of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto we should pledge to fulfill his commitments and vision. She said that leaders like Shaheed Bhutto live in the memory of people due to their dedication and commitment to their cause. He was beacon of light for the downtrodden and marginalized segments of society and his political objective was based on the common man’s right to rule through a fair representative system and their economic empowerment, she said.

Madam Speaker said that the formulating of the unanimous Constitution of 1973, initiation the Nuclear Programme holding of the OIC summit of 1974 at Lahore, the construction of Karakoram Highway, Steel Mills, Port Qasim, Heavy Mechanical Complex and land reforms were the salient monuments to his memory. She said that Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto undoubtedly laid the foundation for strong structures for the economy of the country.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza called upon the Nation to forge unity and shun their political differences in order to strengthen democracy and to meet the diverse challenges presently faced by the country. She said that by following the footsteps of the Quaid–e-Awam, we would be able to rise as a progressive and a responsible nation in the comity of Nations.

Islamabad, January 2, 2010 Gilgit Baltistan Chief Minister Calls on the Speaker NA

GILGIT BALTISTAN CHIEF MINISTER CALLS ON THE SPEAKER NA

Islamabad January 2, 2010: The Speaker National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza has said that democracy was the only way to make Pakistan develop and prosperous and meet the challenges confronting the country. She said this while talking to Syed Mehdi Shah, Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan who along with a group of Member of Gilgit Baltisatan Legislative Assembly, called on her in the Parliament House today.

The Speaker said that granting rights to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan to choose their representatives and form their government was the due since long. She said that with formation of Legislative Assembly in Gilgit, the democratic process in the area has been completed. She said that the step will lead to expedite the process of development and prosperity of the area.

The Speaker said that removing regional imbalances and ensuring equal opportunities was necessary for the strengthening democracy. She said that holding elections in Gilgit-Baltistan, announcing Balochistan package and the 7th NFC award were the visible proof of success of democracy in Pakistan.

The Speaker congratulated the Chief Minister and members of the Assembly of Gilgit-Baltistan on their election and urged them to devote themselves for the uplift and prosperity of the people of the area and strengthening of democratic institutions.

The Chief Minister, Syed Mehdi Shah while speaking on the occasion, said that formation of Legislative Assembly in Gilgit-Baltistan was in accordance with vision of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed. He said that the formation of representative government would pave way for prosperity and progress of the people of the area.

Islamabad, January 2, 2010 Cottage Industry was the Backbone of the Country's Economy: Speaker NA

COTTAGE INDUSTRY WAS THE BACKBONE OF THE COUNTRY’S ECONOMY: SPEAKER NA

Islamabad January 2, 2010: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that cottage industry was of utmost importance for alleviation of poverty and eradication of unemployment from the country and appropriate steps were being taken for its development. She said this while inaugurating the exhibition held jointly by the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) in collaboration with National Institute of Cultural Studies (NICS) at Heritage Museum, Loc Virsa, Islamabad today. The exhibition was held to promote art and crafts of the IDPs from Swat, Malakand and Mansehra.

The Speaker said that terrorism had affected the entire country but the people of Swat and Malakand suffered the most. She said that entire nation salutes the courage and patience of the people of Swat and Malakand who gave exemplary sacrifices in war against terrorism.

The Speaker said that the government was committed to develop the area and restore all civic amenities with utmost speed. She appreciated the initiatives of NCHD and NICS for promoting the art and crafts of the IDPs, adding that the step would generate income and help providing more employment opportunities for the people of Swat and Malakand.

The Chairperson of National Commission of Human Development (NCHD), Ms. Nafisa Shah, Chief Exactive of National Institute of Cultural Studies (NICS), Mrs. Robina Rauf Khalid, MNAs Ms. Donya Aziz, Ms. Robina Sadat Qaim Khani and Ms. Shireen Arshad Khan also addressed on the occasion.

Islamabad, December 31, 2009 New Year will usher in an Era of Peace and Prosperity: Says NA Speaker

NEW YEAR WILL USHER IN AN ERA OF PEACE AND PROSPERITY: SAYS NA SPEAKER

Islamabad December 31, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has greeted the nation on the eve of New Year and has expressed hope that the dawn New Year would usher in an era of peace and prosperity in the country.

She said that the dawn of New Year should inspire the spirit of reconciliation, tolerance and unity among all segments of society. She said that the country was facing numerous challenges including poverty, illiteracy, unemployment and terrorism that can be overcome through joint efforts.

The Speaker said that democracy was remedy of all the problems and imperative for progress and prosperity. She called upon the nation to forge unity among their ranks for promotion and strengthening democracy. She said that on the beginning of New Year we must pledge to strive hard to protect democracy and work for a strong, peaceful and prosperous Pakistan. She wished that the New Year will bring peace and prosperity for all.

Islamabad, December 27, 2009 With the Spirit of Sacrifices and Unflinching Determination we can over come all difficulties

WITH THE SPIRIT OF SACRIFICES AND UNFLINCHING DETERMINATION WE CAN OVER COME ALL DIFFICULTIES: DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA

Islamabad December 27, 2009: The incident of Karbala is remembered an historical event which established the lasting example of rendering sacrifice for upholding truth and principles. The Jihad fought by Hzrat Imam Hussain alognwith his companions is a shining minaret of courage, patience perseverance and determination, said Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly in her message on the occasion of Ashoora, (10th Muharram).

The Speaker said that Ashoora gives us a message of not hesitating to render any sacrifice for upholding the principles of truthfulness and Islamic values. She said that today the Muslim Ummah was passing through difficult phase and was confronting problems and challenges like extremism and terrorism. She said that today Ummah needed the spirit of Karbala, and added that with the spirit of sacrifices and unflinching determination we can over come all difficulties.

The Speaker said that the best way to pay tributes to the martyrs of Karbala was to make commitment on this day to work and devote oneself for the development and strength of the county.

Islamabad, December 26, 2009 NA Speaker call upon all the Political Forces to Rise abnove Party Politics to Strengthen Democracy and Eliminate Terrorism and Extremism

NA SPEAKER CALL UPON ALL THE POLITICAL FORCES TO RISE ABOVE PARTY POLITICS TO STRENGTHEN DEMOCRACY AND ELIMINATE TERRORISM AND EXTREMISM.

Islamabad December 26, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto had always aspired for a society, free from exploitation and discrimination, fought for the downtrodden and oppressed and longed for a prosperous and progressive Pakistan where women were not subjected to humiliation, torture and were treated with respect as equal partners to progress and prosperity. She said this in her message on the 2nd Death Anniversary of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto being observed tomorrow.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto had a multi-dimensional personality and was bacon of light for the oppressed and marginalized segments of the society. She said that Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto challenged the worst dictatorship of the times and paved way for democracy in Pakistan. The Speaker said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto had to pass through the whirlpool of vendetta by a repressive regime in shape of brutal assassination of her father, the murders of her two brothers, the hardships of her mother, her husband’s imprisonments, physical and mental torture, Nevertheless, she bravely faced whatever came in her way, continued to challenge the dictatorships and remain steadfast in her commitment to the people and democracy.

Madam Speaker said that Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto strongly believed in solidarity of Federation and provincial autonomy and the people of the four provinces had their confidence in her and whenever the nation was given a relatively free chance to choose, her political party returned successful from all the four federating units. She said that Pakistan witnessed a phenomenal devolvement in all sectors of economy and made the country impregnable during her both tenures as Prime Minister.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that throughout her life Mohtarma worked diligently for the well-defined goals of women empowerment, brought women folk to mainstream of politics, opened first women bank, ensured state protection for women by establishing separate women police stations, dedicated funds and schemes in shape of women health workers, and encouraged women at every tier of political hierarchy.

Madam Speaker said that Mohtarma strongly believed in reconciliation and forbearance. She was always forgiving and tried to look for similarities rather than to seek difference and believed in building bridges and not living in isolation, both on the international and national front.

Madam Speaker called upon all the political forces to rise above party lines to work for the democracy, say no to extremism, militancy and violence and rebuild Pakistan as Mohtarma dreamed, aspired and worked for. May Allah rest the soul of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto in eternal peace (Ameen), Madam Speaker added.

Islamabad, December 24, 2009 Speaker NA stresses for follow the principles of Quaid-e-Azam in order to lead Pakistan to progress and prosperity

SPEAKER NA STRESSES FOR FOLLOW THE PRINCIPLES OF QUAID-E-AZAM IN ORDER TO LEAD PAKISTAN TO PROGRESS AND PROSPERITY

Islamabad December 24, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that to attain a respectable and dignified place for Pakistan in the comity of nations, every Pakistani should follow the golden principles of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. She said that we should focus on unity, faith and discipline in order to lead Pakistan to progress and prosperity. She expressed these views in her message to nation on 133rd Birth Anniversary of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The Speaker said that Quaid-e-Azam was a great leader of 20th Century and was a symbol of integrity and honesty. He won a free homeland for Muslims of India and defeated colonial powers and Hindu majority with his principled stand and un-tiring struggle, she said.

The Speaker said that Quaid-e-Azam visioned Pakistan as democratic impregnable welfare state where people could live with Peace, love, fraternity and harmony. He also desired that every citizen should have equal opportunities of education, health, progress and justice, she said.

The Speaker said that the befitting way to pay tribute to Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah is to forge unity among our ranks, work hard for the progress and prosperity of the country and follow the golden principles of Quaid-e-Azam.

Islamabad, December 24, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker extends warm felicitations to the Christian on Christmas

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER EXTENDS WARM FELICITATIONS TO THE CHRISTIAN ON CHRISTMAS

Islamabad December 24, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has extended warm felicitations to the Christian Members of the Parliament and the Christian community on the auspicious occasion of Christmas.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Jesus Christ was ordained by almighty Allah to preach love, peace and tolerance and brotherhood who inculcated spiritual values among his followers to work for the divine pleasure. The Muslims deeply revere Prophet Jesus Christ as one of the great messengers of God Almighty, she said. She said that Jesus Christ’s eternal message of love for humanity and for the Members of all communities and fraternities still holds strength to ensure harmony and peace in the world. She said that in face of the current challenging situation in the country, we should forge unity to counter the nefarious designs of the enemies.

The Speaker, on this happy occasion, reiterated the pledge of the government to fully safeguard the rights and privileges enjoyed by all minorities according to the constitution of Pakistan and guiding principles of the Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. These would always remain a sacred trust for the people and the Government of Pakistan, she said.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza also extended her appreciation to the Christian community for their deep sense of patriotism and dedicated services for the progress and prosperity of the country. Their unmatched contributions in the process of nation building, especially in the field of health and education was a glowing chapter of our national history.

Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly has also extended greetings to his fellow Christian colleagues on the auspicious occasion of Christmas.

Islamabad, December 23, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Felicitate Anwar Mansoor Khan on his Appointment as Attorney General of Pakistan

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER FELICITATE ANWAR MANSOOR KHAN ON HIS APPOINTMENT AS ATTORNEY GENERAL OF PAKISTAN

Islamabad; December 23, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi Deputy Speaker National Assembly have extended congratulations to Anwar Mansoor Khan on his appointment as Attorney General of Pakistan.

In their congratulatory messages the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker have expressed hope that the new Attorney General will come upto the expectations of the government and the trust reposed in him.

Islamabad, December 11, 2009 Speaker NA, Dr. Fehmida Mirza held a Meeting with the French Foreign Minister

SPEAKER NA HELD A MEETING WITH THE FRENCH FOREIGN MINISTER

Islamabad, December 11,2009: The Speaker of National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza held a meeting with the French Foreign Minister, Mr. Bernard Kouchner here today and discussed with him the recent developments in Pakistan , concerning democracy, security and economic situation. During the talks, she particularly mentioned the pro-active role played by Pakistan ’s Parliament to seek sustainable solutions of the multi-faceted challenges.

Mr. Kouchner reiterated the French Government’s support for democracy in Pakistan and also appreised the Speaker about President Sarkozy’s visit to Pakistan next year.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that durable peace in South Asia cannot be achieved without resolution of Kashmir issue. She underlined that peace and stability in Pakistan is inextricably linked with that of Afghanistan .

Dr. Fehmida Mirza also sought the support of the international community not only in the security domain but for the social sector as well. She thanked the French Government for their assistance to IDPs of Swat and appreciated the French role in FoDP forum.

Islamabad, December 11, 2009 Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker NA Talking to the Members of the Pakistan Community Based in Paris

DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA, SPEAKER NA TALKING TO THE MEMBERS OF THE PAKISTAN COMMUNITY BASED IN PARIS

Islamabad, December 11, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker of the National Assembly while talking to the members of the Pakistan community based in Paris said that the challenges faced by Pakistan today were multi-faceted which should be tackled by all the Pakistanis together and that democracy was the best way to solve these problems.

Dr. Mirza emphasized that prolonged periods of dictatorships weakens the institutions and results in sufferings for the masses. When political forces are excluded from the process, a vacuum is created which is filled by undesirable elements. Democratic process may take time but it is always good for the country, she added.

Dr. Mirza said that the policy of reconciliation initiated by Shaheed Mohterma Benazir Bhutto is bearing fruits and it is for the first time in the nation’s history that all political forces are taken on board on all vital issues. The Parliament is being strengthened and debates on all important issues including the security situation, she added. She urged the overseas Pakistanis to dispel all misperceptions about Pakistan and project its true image as a moderate and progressive country.

Responding to a question, the Speaker explained how the Parliamentary Committee on Constitutional Reforms was formed in a transparent way to include members from all major political forces and smaller provinces. She added that the Committee was working day and night, without any outside interference, so that an acceptable and comprehensive reform package could be introduced at the earliest.

Islamabad, December 10, 2009 Speaker National Assembly Stresses International Support to Pakistan's Democracy

SPEAKER NATIONAL ASSEMBLY STRESSES INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT TO PAKISTAN’S DEMOCRACY

Islamabad 10 December, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker of the National Assembly has stressed to support the nascent democracy in Pakistan by helping the people in the social sector and emphasized on initiating “Parliamentary Diplomacy” by engaging the parliamentarians of the two countries. She made these remarks in her meeting with Mr. Gerard Larcher, President of the Upper House of the French Parliament, the Senate. The two leaders along with their respective delegations, met at the Lexumburg Palace, which houses the chambers of the French Upper House.

Dr. Mirza, in her talks with Mr. Larcher, explained to him the recent developments in Pakistan, concerning democracy, security and economic situation. In these spheres, she particularly mentioned the pro-active role played by Pakistan’s Parliament to seek sustainable solutions of the multi-faceted challenges. She said that it was for the first time in the nation’s history that due to the present government’s policy of reconciliation, all political forces were taken on board on all vital issues. The Parliament debated the security situation threadbare and gave a unanimous nod to the policy guideline for the Government in this respect.

Mr. Larcher appreciated the role of Pakistani Parliament and reiterated his country’s full support to democratic forces of the country. He referred to the French role in providing aid and relief to the earthquake victims of 2005 and the recently displaced people of Swat and Waziristan. He promised to further extend this support base by encouraging further French involvement in the economic sector. The French, however, linked the economic development in Pakistan to the improvement of peace and security in the region. Dr. Mirza, while agreeing to this notion, reminded the French that Pakistan was committed to the ideals of peaceful coexistence with its neighbours. She stressed that the international community should facilitate India and Pakistan to resolve all outstanding disputes, including the core Kashmir issue and the water dispute, on urgent basis. She also reminded the international community that in the ongoing war against terror, Pakistan has been the worst victim, which has paid the heaviest price in terms of death and destruction, than by any other nation in the world.

Islamabad, December 9, 2009 NA Speaker Meets with Members of French Foreign Committee

NA SPEAKER MEETS WITH MEMBERS OF FRENCH FOREIGN COMMITTEE

Islamabad, December 9, 2009: The Speaker of National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza held a meeting with the Foreign Affairs Committee of the French National Assembly headed by Mr. Axel Poniatowski today. She was accompanied by five members of National Assembly belonging to various political parties. During the meeting a wide range of regional and international issues including Afghanistan, India, nuclear proliferation and internal security, came under discussion.

The members of the French National Assembly Committee, while appreciating the pro-active role being played by Pakistan parliament under the leadership of Dr. Fehmida Mirza extended their full support to democracy in Pakistan. They also acknowledged the Speaker distinction as the first women speaker not only in Pakistan but also in the entire Islamic world.

Replying a question by a French Parliamentarian, Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that durable peace in South Asia cannot be achieved without resolution of Kashmir issue. She underlined that peace and stability in Pakistan was inextricably linked with that of Afghanistan.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza also sought the support of the international community not only in the security domain but for the social sector as well. She thanked the French Government for their assistance to IDPs of Swat and appreciated the French role in FoDP forum.

Islamabad, December 9, 2009 NA Speaker Meet the President of French National Assembly and French Parliamentary Delegation for Human Rights

NA SPEAKER MEET THE PRESIDENT OF FRENCH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY AND FRENCH PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION FOR HUMAN RIGHTS

Islamabad, December 9, 2009: The Speaker of National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza in her meeting today with the French Parliamentary delegation for Women Rights and Equal Opportunities for Males and Females highlighted the legislation made in the Parliament and steps taken by the Government to protect women rights in Pakistan.

While talking to Mrs. Marie-Jo Zimmermann, head of the French delegation, the Madam Speaker highlighted the importance of the role played by the NGO in protecting women rights in Pakistan. She also appraised the French delegation about the formation of Women Parliamentary Caucus comprising all women parliamentarians which is playing an active role in women empowerment and their protection. The caucus has successfully activated women Police Stations and is involved in establishing hospitals for burn victims in remote areas through funds being provided by the parliamentarians, she said and added that recently a Women Emergency Call Centre has also been established in Karachi. Â The Speaker also mentioned the Bill to protect the rights of females at the work places, especially in government offices which was introduced in the National Assembly a few months back.

Mrs. Marie-Jo Zimmermann and other members of the French Parliamentary delegation appreciated the strategy adopted by the National Assembly of Pakistan under the leadership of Dr. Fehmida Mirza regarding women empowerment, establishment of caucus, passage of a number of resolutions and proactive role of women parliamentarians in promoting the cause of downtrodden people of Pakistan especially that of women.

Earlier the Madam Speaker in her meeting with the President of the French National Assembly, Mr. Bernard Accoyer appreciated the French Government support for democracy in Pakistan and expressed desire for frequent interaction between Pakistani and French parliamentarians as that would help understand each other point of view and reinforce bilateral relations.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza is currently on an official visit to France as head of a seven member Parliamentary delegation on the invitation of her French counterpart.

Islamabad, December 7, 2009 NA Speaker and Acting Speaker Condemn the Bomb Blast in Peshawar

NA SPEAKER AND ACTING SPEAKER CONDEMN THE BOMB BLAST IN PESHAWAR

Islamabad; December 7, 2009. Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Acting Speaker National Assembly have strongly condemned bomb blasts in Peshawar, today.

In their separate messages, the Speaker and Acting Speaker said that it was a shameful act of terrorism, which reflected inhumane and callous nature of the perpetrators. They said that the elements involved in such cowardice act were the enemies of the country and humanity. They said that terrorist wanted to disrupt the peace in the country and creat terror and fear amongst the people but they will not succeed in their nefarious design. They called upon the law enforcing agencies to apprehend the criminals involved in this act of terrorism and bring them to justice.

The Speaker and Acting Speaker sympathized with the injured and their families and prayed for their speedy recovery. They also prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the souls of the victims in eternal peace and grant the bereaved families the courage to bear the irreparable loss.

Islamabad, December 5, 2009 A 6-Member Pakistan Parliamentary Delegation headed by Speaker NA Dr. Fehmida Mirza will visit France

A 6-MEMBER PAKISTAN PARLIAMENTARY DELEGATION HEADED BY SPEAKER NA DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA WILL VISIT FRANCE

DEPUTY SPEAKER NA, FAISAL KARIM KUNDI WILL ACT AS SPEAKER NA

Islamabad December 5, 2009: Six members Pakistan Parliamentary Delegation led by Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan will be visiting France on the invitation of President National Assembly of France Mr. Bernard Accoyer from 7th to 11 December, 2009. The delegation includes MNAs, Mr. Akhunzada Chittan, Mr. Arif Aziz Sheikh, Mr. Nauman Langrial, Mr. Tayyab Hussain, and Ms. Boshra Gohar.

During the stay in France the delegation will call on the President of France Mr. Medef, President of National Assembly of France Mr. Bernard Accoyer and President of Senate, France Mr. Gerard Larcher. The delegation will also meet with the members of Foreign Affair Committee of the National Assembly of France and Pakistan-France Friendship Group in the National Assembly of France. Besides interaction with the French Media, the delegation will also meet with Pakistani Community in France.

During the visit of Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker NA to France the Deputy Speaker NA, Faisal Karim Kundi will act as Speaker National Assembly from 7th to 11th December, 2009.

Islamabad, December 3, 2009 More legislation for welfare of disabled persons, says NA Speaker

MORE LEGISLATION FOR WELFARE OF DISABLED PERSONS, SAYS NA SPEAKER

Islamabad December 3, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that the Government was fully aware of the needs of special people and has taken numerous steps to provide equal opportunities to the person with disability. She said that Parliament would initiate legislation to further improve and protect the rights of the persons with disabilities. She expressed these views in her message on the International Day of Disabled Person with Disabilities being commemorated through out World with the theme “making the millennium development goals (MDG) inclusive empowerment of persons with disabilities” today.

The Speaker said that the International Day of Disabled Persons aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the wellbeing of persons with disabilities. “It also seeks to increase awareness of gains to be derived from the integration of disabled persons in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life” she added.

The Speaker said that it is incumbent upon Government institutions, civil society, philanthropist and international community to make concrete efforts to meet MDGs along with the active participation of persons with disabilities. She said that Government has introduced special computerized identity cards for disabled persons, besides taking other tangible steps including the free medical treatment at Government hospitals and implementation of 2% quota for their employment. She said that implementation of laws regarding special persons would be ensured.

The Speaker stressed the need for collective efforts for raising awareness and promoting greater understanding regarding the fulfillment of needs of the disabled persons.

Islamabad, November 28, 2009 Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly visiting the PIMS Hospital Islamabad

DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA, SPEAKER NATIONAL ASSEMBLY VISITING THE PIMS HOSPITAL, ISLAMABAD ON 28-11-2009

Islamabad, November 25, 2009 Eid Gift for the 1st Born Baby of the IDPs

EID GIFT FOR THE 1st BORN BABY OF THE IDPs

Islamabad November 25, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has sent Eid gifts and a cheque amounting Rs. 10000/- for the 1st born girl baby in the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp Swabi. The girl that was named Amn was adopted by the Speaker NA and an announcement to the effect was in a meeting of parliament Relief and Oversight Committee for IDPs. Accordingly the Speaker at that time announced to defray the expenditures of the upbringing of girl child and her family till their complete rehabilitation. A Representative of the Madam Speaker who was deputed for the purpose, handed over gifts and cheque of Rs. 10000 to Amn in presence of her father and District Coordination Officer (DCO) Bunair at the District Headquarter Bunair today.

Islamabad, November 24, 2009 Government committed to Eliminate Violence Against Women: Says NA Speaker

GOVERNMENT COMMITTED TO ELIMINATE VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN: SAYS NA SPEAKER

Islamabad November 24, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that 10th Anniversary of the UN International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women was yet another occasion that reminds us of our commitment to “Saying No to Violence Against Women”. This is not a mere slogan: it is a commitment that we all honor and live up to, she said this on the International Day against elimination of violence against women being commemorated though out the world on 25th November.

She said that as a human rights advocate and a committed political activist, it gives her a sense of achievement when she noticed that VAW was now being considered as a human rights issue, a peace and security issue and an issue that concerns both women and men around the world including Pakistan.

The Speaker said that that was indeed a result of the long and hard global struggle of the women rights activist. In Pakistan, the progressive political and social forces have reminded instrumental in curbing this evil during the past six decades of our independence. She said that however, she could not overlook the credit that essentially goes to the youth and media of this country who have stared looking at these dimensions for accepting them in the given perspective. She said that together with the civil society and the emerging practice of policy reviews by the present-day government was a step forward to eliminate VAW.

Dr. Fehmida said that according to the latest data complied so far reveals shocking trends. Amazingly about 70% of women experience physical or sexual violence from men in their life time. It happens everywhere—at home and at work, on streets and in schools, during peacetime and in conflict. She said that though a global issue, that trend nevertheless, had been more vehement in south Asia, including Pakistan. The growing cases of acid and stove burn victims, honor killings and harassment in general have seen a steady increase during the present decade, which surely calls for urgent preventive steps, she added.

She said that the present Parliament, being a genuinely representative house, was fully alive to that reality. It thus goes to credit of the National Assembly that had passed significant legislations, enabling the state machinery to effectively control violence against women. The passage of the VAW Bill, amendment in the penal code to check Harassment at work place and the tabling of the related bill were few examples.

The Speaker said that still needed to be done, that was indeed an uphill ask especially in the wake of existing challenges and risk including the ongoing security issues that entail much big problems that can be perceived. The VAW remains a major source of insecurity for the women and a greater impediment for not only their own but also for the national development.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that it was with the spirit of addressing the challenges that the women parliamentarians have jointly formed the Women Parliamentary Caucus. She said that WPC was committed to play a key role in putting together all different areas around a common agenda to ensure protection and access of rights for women. She said that in order to eliminate VAW, we need to engage men and youth in this struggle. She opined that they were the key to wiping out this menace because they are generally the perpetrators and they are the protectors as well and without their support and involvement, we will reach now ever.

Islamabad, November 24, 2009 Speaker NA Chairs the Meeting of Heads/ Representatives of Parliamentary Parties

SPEAKER NA CHAIRS THE MEETING OF HEADS/ REPRESENTATIVES OF PARLIAMENTARY PARTIES

Islamabad: November 24, 2009: A meeting of the Heads/Representatives of Parliamentary Parties in the Senate and National Assembly was held under the Chairperson of Madam Speaker NA, Dr. Fehmida Mirza in Parliament House today.

The meeting discussed matters relating to conduction of business in the House during the Joint Session of the Parliament. It was decided that the session will be prorogued after presentation of the Aghaz-e-Haqooq-e-Balochistan Package. It was also decided that the package will be discussed in Senate and National Assembly that will be convened as per schedules.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Zaheeruddin Babar Awan, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah, Minister for Labour and Manpower, Syed Naveed Qamar, Minister for Petroleum & Natural Resources and Privatization, Senators. Mian Raza Rabbani, Mr. Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Prof. Khurshid Ahmed, Mr. Abdur Rahim Khan Mandokhel and Dr. Abdul Malik, MNAs. Sheikh Aftab Ahmed, Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, Maulana Muhammad Qasim, Eng. Shaukatullah, Mr. Iqbal Muhammad Ali Khan and Mr. Adeel Khan.

Islamabad, November 20, 2009 NA Speaker Calls for Protection of Children from Violence, Trafficking, Child Labor and Other Abuses

NA SPEAKER CALLS FOR PROTECTION OF CHILDREN FROM VIOLENCE, TRAFFICKING, CHILD LABOR AND OTHER ABUSES

Islamabad November 20, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that children are the hope of mankind and continuity of human race and needed to be protected from degrading living conditions, violence, drug trafficking, child labor and other abuses. She said this in her message on the universal Children Day being commemorated today throughout the globe.

The Speaker said that basic human rights conventions guarantee fundamental rights and freedom to adults and children without any discrimination; therefore, recognition of equal status to children as individuals in enjoying their fundamental rights and freedom should be ensured. She said that the children were no longer the mere objects of protection who have need but were human beings who enjoy rights. She called upon the states, organizations and individuals to accord priority and set goals and strategies and actions to improve the lives of the children and make world fit for children.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza called upon the parents to rekindle fond memories, create ripples in the parent-child relationship and spend time with their children to create positive memories and take part in fun activities. She said that the children need love and respect to grow to their full potential; therefore, we should listen to children, to marvel at their uniqueness and all they have to offer.

The Speaker called upon adoption of benevolent and compassionate posture towards disadvantaged children so that they could have access to basic living essential rather than being forced to engage in demeaning and non-empowering jobs, early marriages, warfare and other situations impeding their growth and well being. She stressed for creating job opportunities for the underprivileged communities so that their children were not forced into child Labour. She said that as per ILO statistics millions of children are in Labour worldwide either earns living for their families or supplement the income of their parents.

Recounting the ordeal of children in the conflict and post-conflict areas, the Speaker said that thousands of children were subjected to torture and were particularly at high risk on those areas. She said that the anguish of those children posses profound threat to child emotional, physiological and social development whereas direct physical torture adds risk to severe chronic physiological damage. She emphasized the need for protection of children rights and on their and their family rehabilitation.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza appreciated the contributions of UNICEF for protection of rights of children and creating an enabling environment for them to nurture specially in the underdeveloped countries. Dr. Fehmida Mirza called upon the provincial governments and community welfare organizations to pay special attention to the protection of children rights and elimination of child Labour. She also asked the government to adopt children centric policies and legislation to promote the welfare of children.

Islamabad, November 17, 2009 Poverty and Illiteracy the Main Causes of Extremism: Says Speaker NA

POVERTY AND ILLITERACY THE MAIN CAUSES OF EXTREMISM: SAYS SPEAKER NA

Islamabad: November 17, 2009. Speaker National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza has said that terrorism and extremism were the biggest threats to peace and stability in the region and it can be curbed through closer collaboration amongst the world community adding that poverty, illiteracy and unemployment being the main causes of terrorism and extremism needed to be eliminated. She expressed these views while talking to the Member of German Parliament Marielwse Beck, Ambassador of Germany Dr. Michael Koch and Ambassador of Indonesia, Ishak Latuconsina, who called on her separately in the Parliament House today.

Talking to the German Member of Parliament and the Ambassador, the Madam Speaker said that peace and security was essential for progress and prosperity of the region and that could be achieved through closer cooperation amongst the world community. She said that for world peace and security, Pakistan was rendering unprecedented sacrifices. She underlined the need for enhancing interaction among parliamentarians, intellectuals and business community for closer cooperation.

The Madam Speaker said that people of Pakistan have great expectations from the democratic system and the parliament and expressed optimism to come up to the people expectations. She expressed her gratitude for German support for restoration of democracy in Pakistan and for the displaced people of Swat.

The German MP Marielwse Beck and Ambassador of Germany Dr. Michael Koch assured the Madam Speaker of their continued support for Pakistan in rehabilitating the affectees of Swat and other war affected areas. They also appreciated Pakistan endurance to host the largest number of Afgan refugees for such a long time.

Talking to the Ambassador of Indonesia, Ishak Latuconsina, the Speaker said that Pakistan values high its relations with Indonesia and wanted to further enhance the existing relations and cooperation in various sectors of the economy. Underlining the need for greater exchange of parliamentary delegations the Speaker said that it would provide opportunities to benefit from each other experiences and also to establish people to people contact. The Speaker apprised the Ambassador about the working of parliament, NA Sanding Committees, Women Caucus and Parliamentarians role for rehabilitation and over sighting of the relief activities for IDPs.

The Ambassador of Indonesia, Ishak Latuconsina assured the Madam Speaker of his country support for rehabilitation of IDPs.

Islamabad, November 17, 2009 Speech Text: Speaker NA, Dr. Fehmida Mirza Inaugurated the Polio Eradication Quarterly Campaign for Nov 2009

Speech Text: Speaker NA, Dr. Fehmida Mirza Inaugurated the Polio Eradication Quarterly Campaign for Nov 2009 by administering polio drops to the children in the Parliament House today. Present on the occasion were Mr. Ejaz Hussain Jakrani, Federal Minister for Health, Parliamentarians, Secretary Health and large of number doctors and Representatives of NGOs and Donor Agencies

Speech Text: Speaker NA, Dr. Fehmida Mirza Inaugurated the Polio Eradication Quarterly Campaign for Nov 2009 by administering polio drops to the children in the Parliament House today. Present on the occasion were Mr. Ejaz Hussain Jakrani, Federal Minister for Health, Parliamentarians, Secretary Health and large of number doctors and Representatives of NGOs and Donor Agencies

Following is the text of Madam Speaker speech she delivered on the occasion:

Mr. Ijaz Jhakrani, Federal Minister of Health!

Fellow Members of the Parliament!

Representatives of the Donor Agencies!

Guests, Ladies & Gentlemen!

And Good Afternoon!

It is a pleasure for me to join a noble cause today and become a part of the vital polio eradication drive in Pakistan. This week thousands of our dedicated health workers and volunteers are going door to door, house to house and village to village across the country. Their aim is very clear: to vaccinate every child under five years against polio. In this way, these health workers will be embarking upon the largest public health initiative ever carried in our national history.

A very important aspect of this campaign is also the fact that after a gap of three long years, Polio Drive will finally resume in the beautiful valley of Swat. This unfortunate aspect also reminds us that the gruesome acts of militancy and terrorism did not only affect the lives and properties of the adult citizens of Swat but also the vulnerable innocent children of Swat. I am, therefore, particularly pleased that from every angle, Swat is now returning to normalcy.

This, in itself shows that today there is the highest level of Political Commitment in the country for this cause. We all know that in October this year, the President himself launched the Polio Round while Aseefa Bhutto Zardari was appointed the Ambassador for Polio Eradication.

Her appointment is indeed a tribute and a mark of continuity to the great legacy of her mother and our Great leader Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, who was the first to launch the Polio Campaign in Pakistan in 1994 and continuously patronized it afterwards.

In this way, Shaheed Mohtarma brought the public focus to the devastating effects of this preventable disease and converted this important drive into a serious national issue. Thanks to her efforts, Pakistan has been able to make significant progress against polio through immunization.

In 1994 nearly 30,000 children were crippled every year. This year the number of cases is just 80.

This is a great achievement. But let not forget that even these 80 cases are also those innocent children whose lives will forever be affected. Even a single child with polio means that still our loved-ones are not fully immunized they missed out on an important lifesaving health intervention. To succeed in eradicating polio, we must succeed in reaching all children under 5.

Having said that I, nevertheless, also acknowledge that achieving eradication cannot be the job of the health sector alone. Such a massive logistical undertaking can only succeed with the active participation, efforts and commitment of each and every one of us. The whole nation must, therefore, put in its share in ensuring the success of this campaign.

In this regard, our Prime Minister Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani launched an Action Plan this year to ensure strong inter-sectoral collaboration for the programme. As a result, it is highly encouraging that now we are seeing sectors outside health like National Highways & Motorways Police, Traffic Police in major cities, Mobile Phone Companies, NADRA, media organizations and now Pakistan Post ---- who are all actively supporting the programme.

In the same spirit, I would like to advise all parliamentarians to join this noble task and prove to be the real representatives of our people by becoming the saviors of our children through this Campaign. Here, I would particularly like to mention the contributions of one of our MNAs from Baluchistan Dr. Zille Huma, who has distinctly served as Polio Campaigner in the far-flung areas of the province.

This example must be followed. Our parliamentarians have considerable influence on the community and the public opinion. They can play a vital role in monitoring and supporting immunization activities by raising awareness, engaging community organizations and mobilizing Party workers to convert their respective constituencies into a Polio-Free Constituency.

And let me remind you all that this is not a one-time exercise but a consistent and continuous effort. Our words and actions, therefore, must go far beyond today session. We must make this drive our top priority and should continue hammering it in our every public contact on regular basis.

This commitment must continue during the current week, the weeks and months which follow afterwards and then throughout the next year.

I have every reason to believe that Pakistan has the capacity and we have the ability to protect our children from the cruel effects of polio and other fatal diseases. Our collective efforts to eradicate polio and promote child health will provide the basis for achieving other important health and development goals, including the Millennium Development Goals.

I look forward to the day when we celebrate our success by achieving 100% polio free Pakistan.

I look forward to the day when our children will be provided with an enabling, encouraging and promising environment to grow and succeed in life

I look forward to a safe, healthy and promising future for our nation.

I thank you all.

Islamabad, November 12, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condemn the Murder of Director Public Relation, Iranian Consulate in Peshawar

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDEMN THE MURDER OF DIRECTOR PUBLIC RELATION, IRANIAN CONSULATE IN PESHAWAR

Islamabad November 12, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker, National Assembly have condemned the murder of Director Public Relations of Iranian Consulate, Abu Alhasan Jafri who was assassinated by unknown assailants in Peshawar today.

In their separate messages the Speaker and Deputy Speaker expressed their sorrow and anguish over the incident and said that attack on envoy of brotherly Muslim country was a cowardice and shameful act of terrorism, which reflected inhuman and callous nature of the perpetrators. They said that the criminals involved in this incident will not be spared and will be dealt with iron hand. They called upon concerned authorities to apprehended the culprits and bring them to justice as soon as possible.

They prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant the bereaved family the courage to bear the irreparable loss with equanimity.

Islamabad, November 11, 2009 World Community Support a Must to Eradicate Terrorism: Speaker NA

WORLD COMMUNITY’S SUPPORT A MUST TO ERADICATE TERRORISM: SPEAKER NA

Islamabad; November 11, 2009: The Speaker National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza has said that Pakistan was confronting challenges like terrorism, poverty, illiteracy, unemployment and deprivation and it needed support of international community to overcome these challenges. She expressed these views while talking to the Ambassadors of Japan and Sweden who called on her separately in the Parliament House today.

Talking to the Ambassador of Japan Chihiro Atsumi, the Madam Speaker said that terrorism and extremism were the biggest threats to peace and stability in the region and it can be eliminated by closer collaboration amongst the world community. She said that Pakistan was the frontline state in war against terrorism and has rendered unprecedented sacrifices in this regard. She said that poverty, deprivation, illiteracy and unemployment in Pakistan and specially tribal areas were the main causes of extremism and terrorism and therefore it was the responsibility of the world community to come forward and assist Pakistan in eliminating the root causes of the menace of extremism & terrorism. The Speaker thanked the Ambassador for Japanese support to Pakistan in various social and economic sectors and also at the Friends of Democratic Pakistan Forum.

The Ambassador of Japan Chihiro Atsumi while appreciating Pakistan sacrifices in fight against terrorism said that Pakistan had rendered sacrifices for making the world safe. He assured the Speaker of his country’s assistance to Pakistan regarding resolving its problems and eliminating factors causing extremism & terrorism.

Talking to the Ambassador of Sweden, Mrs. Ulrika Sundberg, the Madam Speaker said that nascent democratic system in Pakistan needed time and support of western countries for gaining strength and stability. She said that parliament in the country was vibrant and had exhibited a record unanimity on issues of vital national interests. She said the entire nation was unanimous on the issue of war against terrorism and the parliament had also passed a unanimous resolution to the effect. She said that it was the joint responsibility of the world community to assist Pakistan to curb terrorism.

The Swedish Ambassador, Mrs. Ulrika Sundberg, said that European Commission was providing assistance to Pakistan in various sectors of the economy and added that Pakistan needed to build capacity to absorb more assistance from EC. He said that his country was eager to assist democratic Pakistan in fight against terrorism, strengthening democratic institutions, aiding in capacity building and trainings. He appreciated Pakistan’s sacrifices in fight against terrorism.

Islamabad, November 10, 2009 Iranian and Greece Ambassadors call on the Madam Speaker NA

IRANIAN AND GREECE AMBASSADORS CALL ON THE MADAM SPEAKER NA

Islamabad; November 10, 2009: The Speaker NA Dr. Fehmida Mirza has said that the Muslim Ummah was confronting challenges that can be resolved through forging unity among the muslim countries. She said that there were misperceptions in the western countries about Islam and urged religious scholars and media to play their role to dispel the misperceptions of west. She expressed these views while talking to the Ambassador of Iran Mashaallah Shakeri who called on the Madam Speaker in the Parliament House, today.

The Speaker said that Iran and Pakistan were bonded in the eternal ties of religion, culture and history and there was commonality of views and perceptions of both the countries on all regional global issues. She said that Pakistan believed in peaceful resolution of international problems and wanted peace and security in the region as it was essential for prosperity and development.

The speaker said that Pakistan was facing challenges like energy shortages inflation and rampant poverty in the country for which it needed time and support of friendly countries like Iran. She underlined the need for early start and rapid completion of the IPI Gas Pipeline Project. She also underlined the need for enhancing investment and economic cooperation between the two countries. The speaker stressed enhanced exchange of parliamentary delegations for strengthening ties between the two countries.

The Ambassador of Iran H.E Mashaallah Shakri said that enhanced cooperation between Iran and Pakistan will have greater impact on unity and solidarity of Islamic world. He said that the Pakistan was a brotherly muslim country and Iran has always supported it on all regional and international forums. Pakistan strength was Iran strength, he said.

Later on talking to the Ambassador of Greece H.E Petros Mavroidis who called on her, the Madam Speaker said that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with Greece and wanted to expand ties by expanding economic cooperation between the two countries. The Speaker said that Pakistan was a front line State in war against terrorism and needed the support of western countries. She said that she will reactivate the Pakistan Greece Parliamentary Friendship Committee so that interaction between the Parliamentarians of the two countries was enhanced for the strengthening of relations between Pakistan and Greece. The Speaker apprised the Ambassador about the problems of the nascent democracy and the expectations people were having from it. She expressed resolve that the Parliament was committed to work for peoples prosperity and will come upto their expectations. She underlined the need for support of democratic countries for the strength and continuity of democratic institutions in Pakistan.

The Ambassador appreciated the return democracy in Pakistan. He said that 75000/- Pakistanis working in Greece were playing very constructive role in the economic development of Greece. He assured his Government support for strengthening of democratic institutions in Pakistan.

Islamabad, November 10, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condemn the Bomb Blasts in Charsadda

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDEMN THE BOMB BLASTS IN CHARSADDA

Islamabad; November 10, 2009. Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly have strongly condemned bomb blasts in Charsadda.

In their separate messages, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker said that it was a shameful act of terrorism, which reflected inhumane and callous nature of the perpetrators. They said that the elements involved in such cowardice act were the enemies of the country and earned bad name to Islam but they will not succeed in their nefarious design. They called upon the law enforcing agencies to apprehend the criminals involved in this act of terrorism and bring them to justice.

The Speaker and Deputy Speaker sympathized with the injured and their families and prayed for their speedy recovery. They also prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the souls of the victims in eternal peace and grant the bereaved families the courage to bear the irreparable loss.

Islamabad, November 9, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condemn the Bomb Blasts in Ring Road, Peshawar

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDEMN THE BOMB BLASTS IN RING ROAD, PESHAWAR

Islamabad; November 09, 2009. Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly have strongly condemned bomb blasts in Ring Road, Peshawar.

In their separate messages, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker said that it was a shameful act of terrorism, which reflected inhumane and callous nature of the perpetrators. They said that the elements involved in such cowardice act were the enemies of the country and earned bad name to Islam but they will not succeed in their nefarious design. They called upon the law enforcing agencies to apprehend the criminals involved in this act of terrorism and bring them to justice.

The Speaker and Deputy Speaker sympathized with the injured and their families and prayed for their speedy recovery. They also prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the souls of the victims in eternal peace and grant the bereaved families the courage to bear the irreparable loss.

Islamabad, November 8, 2009 Challenges Confronting Pakistan can be overcome by Following the Teachings of Allama Iqbal: Speaker NA

CHALLENGES CONFRONTING PAKISTAN CAN BE OVERCOME BY FOLLOWING THE TEACHINGS OF ALLAMA IQBAL: SPEAKER NA

Islamabad; November 8, 2009: Allama Muhammad Iqbal was a visionary who conceived the idea of separate homeland for the Muslims of the subcontinent that was ultimately materialized in the shape of Islamic Republic of Pakistan, said the Speaker National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza in her message on the occasion of 132nd Birth Anniversary of Allama Muhammad Iqbal.

The Speaker said that prior to 1940, when Pakistan resolution was formally passed, Allama Iqbal's philosophical and poetic writings were instrumental in formation and molding of public opinion. The Speaker said that the dream of Allama Iqbal was a great blessing for the Muslims of the subcontinent, and added that his poetic message rouse and strengthen the spirit and will of the Muslims to get independent and separate homeland for them where they could live according to their creed, culture and traditions.

The Speaker said that Allama Iqbal visualized the suffering of Ummah and masses that led to their melt down and also proposed recipe for their revival and regaining the lost glory of the Muslims.

The Madam Speaker said that the Muslim Ummah in general and Pakistan in particular today was confronting tremendous problems and challenges that could be overcome through the proposed remedies by Hakeem-ul-Ummah, Allama Muhammad Iqbal. The Speaker said that Allama Iqbal was the great proponent of unity of Muslim Ummah and reliance on their resources and strength. She said that much of today's problems will simply vanish by following the teachings of Allama Iqbal and strictly following Islamic ways of life.

The Speaker said that Iqbal's vision of Islamic society was universal that transcended beyond limits of territorial boundaries and barriers of nationhood. She said that his vision of Islam was global, encompassing every colour and race of humanity. The Madam Speaker said that extremism and bigotry had no place in the Allama Iqbal scheme of things and he wanted Muslims to be moderate, peaceful and enlightened so that their deeds convince non Muslim to develop penchant for Islam.

Islamabad, November 8, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condole the Death of the Brother-In-Law of MD(Ptv)

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDOLE THE DEATH OF THE BROTHER-IN-LAW OF MD(PTV)

Islamabad: November 8, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly have expressed their grief over the demise of the brother-in-law of Arshad Khan, Anaging director (PTV).

In their separate condolence messages to Arshad Khan, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant the bereaved family the courage to bear the loss with equanimity (Aamin).

Islamabad, November 8, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker condemn the Bomb Blasts in Matni, Peshawar

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDEMN THE BOMB BLASTS IN MATNI, PESHAWAR

Islamabad; November 08, 2009. Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly have strongly condemned bomb blasts in Matni, Peshawar.

In their separate messages, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker said that it was a shameful act of terrorism, which reflected inhumane and callous nature of the perpetrators. They said that the elements involved in such cowardice act were the enemies of the country and earned bad name to Islam but they will not succeed in their nefarious design. They called upon the law enforcing agencies to apprehend the criminals involved in this act of terrorism and bring them to justice.

The Speaker and Deputy Speaker sympathized with the injured and their families and prayed for their speedy recovery. They also prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the souls of the victims in eternal peace and grant the bereaved families the courage to bear the irreparable loss.

Islamabad, November 5, 2009 French Ambassador calls on Speaker NA

FRENCH AMBASSADOR CALLS ON THE SPEAKER NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

Islamabad; November 5, 2009: The Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza has said that Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with France and both the countries have same perceptions on global and regional issues. She said this while talking to Daniel Jouanneau, Ambassador of France, who called on her in the Parliament House today.

The Madam Speaker said that Pakistan believed that peace and stability was essential for progress and prosperity in the region. She said that terrorism and extremism were the biggest threats to peace and stability and it can be countered by closer cooperation amongst the stakeholders.. The Madam Speaker said that terrorism and extremism can be curbed by addressing the root causes of this menace and underlined the need for enhanced regional and global support to curb this evil.

She said that majority of people in Pakistan were progressive and that is why they have voted for progressive forces in the Parliament. The Speaker said that the Parliament was a sovereign body and it wanted all institutions of the state to work within their sphere. The Speaker apprised the Ambassador about the importance & role of the NA Standing Committee in Pakistan. She also underlined the need for enhanced interaction of the parliamentarians of the two countries for strengthening of bilateral relations.

The Ambassador of France, Daniel Jouanneau said that France wanted democracy and democratic institutions in Pakistan to flourish and strengthen. He said that France also wanted to strengthen cooperation with Pakistan in all sectors of the economy. He said that Pakistan was rendering great sacrifices in the war against terrorism and it was commendable.

Islamabad, November 2, 2009 NA Business Advisory Committee Meets

NA BUSINESS ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETS

Islamabad; November 2, 2009: Meeting of the Business Advisory Committee was held under the Chairperson of Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly, in the Parliament House today.

The meeting discussed the agenda and ways to run the proceedings of 17th session of the National Assembly. The Representatives of all the parliamentary parties gave their proposals regarding business in the House. It was decided that the current NA Session will continue till November 19, 2009. The meeting also decided that the sessions on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday will be held in evening commencing from 04 p.m. while the sessions on Tuesday and Friday will be held in morning commencing from 10 a.m. It was also decided that NA session will also be held on Saturday, the 7th November, 2009.

The meeting condemned the Rawalpindi and Peshawar bomb blasts and offered Fateha for the victims of the blasts.

The meeting was attended by Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker NA, Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah, Minister for Labour and Mapower, Dr. Zaheer-u-Din Babar Awan, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs, Syed Naveed Qamar, Minister for Petroleum and Natural Resources and Privatization, MNAs Sheikh Aftab Ahmed, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Ch. Muhammad Barjees Tahir, Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, Engineer Amir Muqam, Mr. Iqbal Muhammad Ali Khan, Mrs. Jamila Gillani, Engineer Shaukatullah and Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry.

Islamabad, October 30, 2009 United States for Stable, Strong and Prosperous Pakistan

UNITED STATES FOR STABLE, STRONG AND PROSPEROUS PAKISTAN

Islamabad October 30, 2009: Hillary Rodham Clinton, US Secretary of State has said that US was committed to work in partnership with democratic Pakistan for the achievement of long-term strategic goals of security and socio-economic development of the country. She said this while speaking in an interactive meeting with Farooq H. Naik, Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan and Parliamentarians from all the shades of opinion, here today in Parliament House.

She applauded the role played by Pakistan in war against terrorism and extremism. She specifically appreciated the military’s fight in Swat and South Waziristan. She said that in past US government might have committed mistakes but we are here to redress them and establish people-to-people contact to strength democracy and development of Pakistan. She said that Pakistan was not alone in fighting against this strange and unprecedented enemy and we share Pakistan’s concerns and interests in this regard. The Secretary of State said that US was committed to help Pakistan to strengthen democratic institutions and economic development in all sectors of economy.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly while speaking on the occasion said that despite the challenging situation confronting Pakistan, our faith in democracy and war against terrorism was unflinching. She said that the entire nation was unanimous on the issue of war against terrorism and Pakistani Parliament had also passed a unanimous resolution in this regard. She said that our Parliament attaches high value to Pak-US relations and we would like to enhance this cooperation.

In his opening remarks, Farooq H. Naik, Chairman Senate of Pakistan said that Pakistan welcomes the US policy for Muslim world based on mutual understanding. He said that Hillary Clinton’s contribution for enhancing Pak-US relations and democracy was commendable. He said that in view of the present day multi-faceted problems confronting the globe, it was imperative to forge unity by US and Pakistan. He said that Pakistan was committed to eliminate terrorism and added that Hillary Clinton’s visit will not only strengthen US-Pakistan relations but our resolve to fight-out the menace of terrorism and extremism in its all forms and manifestations.

The Parliamentarians while giving proposals to strengthen Pak-US relations said that US should reconsider the concerns of Pakistanis on Kerry-Lugar Bill and drone attacks. They also proposed to give greater access to Pakistani products and business community in US market. The parliamentarians were of the view that NATO forces in Afghanistan should be replaced by security forces from Muslim world and US dealing of Pakistan at par with India. They proposed US involvement to get Kashmir issue resolved as resolution of this issue was important for peace in the region. The parliamentarians also proposed NATO forces should play their role in protecting Pak-Afghan border. They also proposed that US should not support military dictators in future and support strengthening of democratic institutions in Pakistan.

Islamabad, October 26, 2009 Turkish Prime Minister Meets Chairman Senate and NA Speaker

TURKISH PRIME MINISTER MEETS CHAIRMAN SENATE AND NA SPEAKER

Islamabad October 26, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that Turkey initiative for combating terrorism and bringing peace in the region was commendable and would usher in a new era of prosperity in the region. She expressed these views in a meeting with Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Prime Minister of Turkey in Parliament House, today. Farooq H. Niak, Chairman Senate of Pakistan was also present in the meeting.

The Madam Speaker said that friendship between the two brotherly countries was time tested and had roots in history. The Speaker said that Turkey has always been a friend in need and stood by Pakistan in difficult times. She said that Turkey efforts for establishing peace in the region were appreciated by media and people alike.

The Speaker underlined the need for enhanced interaction between the parliamentarians of both the countries for further cementing the fraternal relations between the two countries. The Speaker said that democracy in Pakistan was vibrant and was gaining strength. She said that the parliament has passed unanimous resolutions on issues of national importance and has exhibited exemplary unanimity in fight against terrorism. She said that Turkey was an old democracy and Pakistan could learn a lot through enhanced interaction between the parliamentarians of the two countries. She congratulated him for conferment of highest award of Nishan-e-Pakistan on him by the President of Pakistan.

Speaking on the occasion, Chairman Senate Farooq H. Naik said that relations between Turkey and Pakistan are exemplary and have withstood test of the time. He said that Turkey role in October 2005 Earthquake in AJK and Mansehra was commendable and would always be remembered.

Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Prime Minster of Turkey said that close interaction between the parliamentarians of the two countries would further consolidate relations between two countries. He said that women were playing active role in Turkey development. He appreciated the election of first women Speaker by the Parliament in Pakistan in the Muslim world. He also appreciated Pakistan role for peace and security in the region.

Earlier, the Turkish Prime Minster was received by the Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza and Chairman Senate of Pakistan Farooq H. Naik on arrival at the Parliament House for his address to the Joint sitting of the Parliament.

Islamabad, October 25, 2009 NA Speaker Chairs Meeting to Special Committee on Security Arrangements for the Joint Session of the Parliament

NA SPEAKER CHAIRS MEETING TO SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON SECURITY ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE JOINT SESSION OF THE PARLIAMENT

Islamabad October 25, 2009: A meeting of the Special Committee to review the security arrangements in the Parliament House regarding the Joint Session of the Parliament was held today under the chairpersonship of Madam Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza.

The Committee meeting was briefed by the Minister for Interior Mr. Rehman Malik, Secretary M/o Interior and Inspector General of Police Islamabad regarding the security measures taken by the Police for the Joint Session of the Parliament.

The Committee meeting decided that no guest and personal staff of the Parliamentarians would be allowed in the precincts of the Parliament House on the occasion of Joint Session of Parliament on 26th October. It was also decided that no arms would be allowed in the limits of the Parliament House.

To avoid congestion of vehicle, the Committee meeting decided that a shuttle service shall ply between the Lodges and the Parliament House to facilitate the Members of the Parliament for the Joint Session. The Committee requested the Members of the Parliament to reach the Parliament House by 3p.m.

Speaking on the occasion said that security of the Parliament House and the Parliamentarians was of great importance and must be ensured at any cost. She directed the Police, CDA and other security agencies to better coordination for appropriate security arrangements. She assured the security agencies of the provision of required equipment and funds.

The meeting was attended by Mr. Rehman Malik, Minister for Interior, Mr. Qamar-uz-Zaman Kaira, Minister for Information, Justice (R) Abdul Razak Thaeem, Parliamentarians Mr. Shaukat Ullah Khan, Mr. Zahid Khan, Mr. Bahadur Ahmad Khan Sehair, Mr. Riaz Hussein Pirzada, Mr. Khurrum Dastagir Khan, Mr. Tariq Fazal Ch., Malik Ibrar besides Secretaries of National Assembly, Senate and M/o Interior, Chairman CDA, I.G.P Islamabad and other senior officers of the concerned departments.

Islamabad, October23, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condemn Suicide Attack on Check Post in Kamra

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDEMN SUICIDE ATTACK ON CHECK POST IN KAMRA

Islamabad October 23, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly have strongly condemned suicide attack on Check post in Kamra, which caused death of security personnel, civilians and injured several.

In their messages, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker said that it is a barbaric act of terrorism, which reflected inhumane and callous nature of the perpetrators. They said that a few misguided people were trying to disrupt peace in the country by spreading terror and fear among the people but they will not succeed in their nefarious design. They said that the criminals were playing with the lives of innocent people. They called for an immediate inquiry to unearth the elements behind these attacks.

Praying for the deceased, the Madam Speaker and Deputy Speaker said that may Allah rest the souls of the victims in eternal peace and grant the bereaved families the courage to bear the loss. They also sympathized with the injured and their families and prayed for their speedy recovery.

Islamabad, October17, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Greet Hindu MNAs and Hindu Community on Diwali

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER GREET HINDU MNAs AND HINDU COMMUNITY ON DIWALI

Islamabad October 17, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, speaker National Assembly has greeted Hindu Members of the National Assembly and the Hindu community on Diwali being celebrated today.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that she was delighted to send her warmest greetings to Hindu MNAs and everyone in Hindu community on the auspicious occasion of Diwali. She said that Diwali was such a wonderful inclusive festival, which reaches beyond your communities to people of many backgrounds all over the world. The symbolic illuminations on the occasion represent life and hope and send a powerful message of unity and peace to all of us.

In her message, the Speaker also recognized the huge contributions made by Pakistani Hindu community to the prosperity of the country as something we can all be immensely proud of. She said that their involvement in every sphere of our national life was extremely commendable. Once again, my very best wishes are for joyous occasion, Happy Diwali, she wished.

Mr. Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly also conveyed his sincere and warm greetings on Diwali to his fellow Hindu Members of the National Assembly. He also appreciated their contribution in national development, fostering national unity and cohesion.

Islamabad, October 17, 2009 Eradication of Poverty: Imperative for a Democratic, Strong and Prosperous Pakistan: Says Dr. Fehmida Mirza

ERADICATION OF POVERTY: IMPERATIVE FOR A DEMOCRATIC, STRONG AND PROSPEROUS PAKISTAN: SAYS DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA

Islamabad October 16, 2009: Speaker National Assembly Dr. Fehmida Mirza said the government was committed to provide relief to the poor segment of the society and has devised stringent long-term policies to alleviate poverty from the country. She said that Establishment of Benazir Income Support Program by the government was a pragmatic step to help the poor. She said that in her message on International Day for Eradication of Poverty being commemorated throughout the globe on 17th October.

The Speaker said that persistent increase in the poverty in the under developed countries has reached an alarming situation, therefore, the steep disparity between rich and the poor should be addressed on war footing. She called upon the world communities to join hands to face the challenges and take action to reinvigorate the momentum to eradicate poverty and inequality from the World as agreed in the protocol signed in year 2000 under Millennium Development Goals. We should unite in our efforts to send an even louder message to the decision makers and the governments to see action with regards to their commitment she stressed.

Lauding the decision of the Government to launch Benazir Income Support Program, the Speaker said it was vision of the Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto to eradicate poverty from Pakistan. She stressed for devising more pro-poor policies to fully achieve the vision of Shaheed leaders. She reiterated the government strong resolve to realize the vision of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed of attaining a democratic, strong and prosperous Pakistan.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza also called upon philanthropist organizations, corporate entities and affluent people of the society to adopt benevolent and compassionate attitude towards poor for poverty alleviation. She appealed to them to donate substantial amounts for establishment of industrial homes and vocational training centers so that instead of seeking help, the poor should be able to generate a respectable livelihood for their families.

Islamabad, October 14, 2009 NA Speaker for Devising Policies to Ensure Rural Women Rights

NA SPEAKER FOR DEVISING POLICIES TO ENSURE RURAL WOMEN RIGHTS

Islamabad October 14, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said rural women were one of the most vulnerable and marginalized segments of the society despite their significant role in the rural economy. She said that they were also subject to violence, economic exploitation, malnutrition and lack of basic healthcare. She said that in her message on the occasion of International Rural Women Day being commemorated throughout the globe under the auspicious of United Nations on October 15.

The Speaker said that rural women comprise a major chunk of the population and play a significant role in agriculture sector but their contribution were not recognized at any level. She said that with the advent of latest technology in the agriculture sector, the involvement of women had not been decreased and still have to perform extensive agriculture work. She said that the government should officially recognize their participation in national economy and devise policies to ensure their rights.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that women in our rural socio-cultural panorama were confined to household cores and laborious work in the fields and do not have access to education. She said that education was an inalienable right of every individual; therefore, it was imperative to educate rural women to make them able to understand and face their diverse problems. She asked the government to allocate required funds for establishment of schools for females in the rural areas. She also stressed for ensuring land rights and easy and prompt access to justice to rural women.

She asked the government to extend SME network to rural areas where enterprising rural women could have excess to credit facilities to make them self-sustaining and economically empowered. She also stressed the need to establish training and display centers at Tehsil level for rural women artisans so that they could get appropriate proceeds for their crafts and would also eliminate the role of middlemen who economically exploit rural women. She called upon the Banking Sector to provide loans to rural women so that they could better contribute in national development.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said it was the vision of Shaheed Mohatrama Benazir Bhutto to empower women so that they could better contribute in the national development. She called upon Provincial Government to allot land to landless rural women so that they could earn livelihood for their families. She commended the government decision to launch Benazir Income Support Program to offset the impact of inflation on the purchasing power of the poorer sections of the society.

Islamabad, October 12, 2009 NA Speaker Urge Ulema, Parents, Teachers and Other Public Functionaries for their Cooperation to Administer Polio Drops to Children

NA SPEAKER URGE ULEMA, PARENTS, TEACHERS AND OTHER PUBLIC FUNCTIONARIES FOR THEIR COOPERATION TO ADMINISTER POLIO DROPS TO CHILDREN

Islamabad October 12, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has urged people from all segments of society to enthusiastically participate in the polio vaccination drive starting from today to save children from the crippling disease. The Speaker said this in her message on the launch of nation-wide Polio Vaccination Drive being launched from 12th to 15th October, 2009.

The Speaker urged Ulema, parents, teachers and other public functionaries for their cooperation to administer polio drops to children up to age of five years of age. She said that Ministry of Health, Provincial and District Health Department have chalked out a comprehensive strategy and arranged mobile teams to vaccinate children door-to-door throughout the country. She said that Polio was a crippling disease that continues to threaten health of our children. She said that unfortunately Pakistan was among the half dozen countries in the world which were still not completely polio free.

Recalling the first Polio Eradication Initiative launched by the government of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Shaheed Mohtarma had a strong conviction to eradicate polio from the country which was demonstration of her commitment to improve the social sector, particularly the health of children. She said that government had nominated Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, as Pakistan Ambassador for Polio Eradication, to carry forward the mission of her great mother.

The Speaker said that the aim of the government was to make Pakistan completely polio free where no child lives in the fear of being crippled for life. She said that unfortunately the extremists and militants opposed the vaccination of children against polio. She said that we will not permit militants to deprive our children of basic health care. Let us pledge that no child who should get polio drops will be missed out, Speaker said.

Islamabad, October 7, 2009 Multifaceted, Integrated, Proactive Disaster Management Strategy Crucial to deal with the Disasters: Says NA Speaker

MULTIFACETED, INTEGRATED, PROACTIVE DISASTER MANAGEMENT STRATEGY CRUCIAL TO DEAL WITH THE DISASTERS: SAYS NA SPEAKER

Islamabad October 7, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has called for a multifaceted, integrated, proactive Disaster Management Strategy to deal with the disasters. She said that hazards will always challenge us but, that was within our power to join hands and build a resilient nation. The Speaker said this in her message on the National Disaster Awareness Day being commemorated on 8th October.

The Speaker said that October 8th, 2005 reminds us the day which changed Pakistan forever, when a massive earthquake struck the northern areas of Pakistan and AJ&K devastating the entire country, perishing over 80,000 lives in a blink of an eye, displacing thousands and destructing property worth millions. Recalling the relief and rehabilitation efforts, she said that the entire country joined hands in unison to help the suffering of their brethren in distress.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that this day serves us an opportunity to renew our pledge to be fully focused on mitigation, preparedness and prevention rather than the past approach of response and reaction in the face of disasters. She said that in instance of un-preparedness the loss becomes unavoidable maximizing the loss of life and property and disruption of livelihoods. She said that disaster preparedness can be achieved partially through readiness measures that expedite emergency response, rehabilitation and recovery and result in rapid, timely and targeted assistance. She said that it could also be achieved through community-based approaches and activities that build the capacities of people and communities to cope with and minimize the effects of a disaster on their lives.

The Speaker said that the disasters were never one dimensional, nor even purely "natural". She said that the vulnerability of the country was compounded by short-sighted economic development, inadequate care of the environment, and massive deforestation leading to changes in topography. She called for creating awareness amongst all the stakeholders and convincing them for sagacious utilization of natural resources, revitalization of forests and initiation of steps for rectifying the damage done to the environment.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza also called for a proactive role of local governments to be envisaged in the National Disaster Management strategy to deal with the future disasters. She said that the role of elected representatives would articulate the aggregated needs of their constituents and ensure that the state institutions perform for the well being of the people. Moreover, coordinated efforts could mitigate the sufferings, problems and needs of the effectees when relief items were available in abundance, she added.

She appreciated the efforts of National Management Authority which had successfully played its role in providing relief to the sufferers of earthquake, floods and other natural disasters. She urged the Community Based Organizations, NGOs, Media and all the key stakeholders to work together for supplementing the efforts of the Government in this regard.

Islamabad, October 7, 2009 PM talking Speaker NA in his Chamber at Parliament House on October 7, 2009

Islamabad, October 5, 2009 NA Business Advisory Committee Meets

NA BUSINESS ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETS

Islamabad; October 05, 2009: Meeting of the Business Advisory Committee was held under the Chairperson of Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly, in the Parliament House today.

The meeting discussed the agenda and ways to run the proceedings of 16th session of the National Assembly. The Representatives of all the parliamentary parties gave their proposals regarding business in the House. It was decided that the current NA Session will continue till October 16, 2009. The meeting was also decided that the sessions on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday will be held in evening while the sessions on Tuesday and Friday will be held in morning. The meeting also reviewed the security situation and it was decided that all the MPs would abide by rules and regulations pertaining to security.

The meeting was attended by Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker NA, Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah, Minister for Labour and Mapower, Mr. Qamar Zaman Kaira, Minister for Information & Broadcasting, MNAs Nawab Muhammad Yousaf Talpur, Sheikh Aftab Ahmed, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Ch. Muhammad Barjees Tahir, Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, Engineer Amir Muqam, Mr. Iqbal Muhammad Ali Khan, Mrs. Jamila Gillani and Engineer Shaukatullah.

Islamabad, October 4, 2009 Promotion of Education, Top Priority of the Present Government: Says NA Speaker

PROMOTION OF EDUCATION, TOP PRIORITY OF THE PRESENT GOVERNMENT: SAYS NA SPEAKER

Islamabad October 4, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker has urged the nation to pledge for enhancing the respect and dignity of teachers in the society as ordained by our religious, social and cultural values. She said that we should take all measures to restore dignity, honour and respect of the teachers in society to promote education in real sense. She said this in her message on Worldâ€™s Teachers Day observed worldwide under the auspices of United Nation on 5th October.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that teachers are the greatest builders because they give vision and direction to the youth who are future of a nation. She said that the teachers serve as a guide to deliver people from darkness of ignorance, show them the light of knowledge and help put nation on the path of development and progress. The teachers besides teaching, also concentrate on promoting wisdom, integrity, character and tolerance among the students so that they could become good citizens, she added.

The Speaker said that a nation can only prosper if it gives due respect and honour to its teachers. She regretted that in the past teachers had been neglected in our society. She assured the teaching community that they were important members of the society. He said teaching has been universally acclaimed as one of the noblest of professions.

She said that promotion of education was top priority of the present government and had taken a number of initiatives for the uplift of education in the country including welfare of teachers by enhancing the pays of the teachers, allocation of substantial funds for the establishment of educational institutions and provision of free books to the students. She called upon the civil society organizations and individuals to come forward and supplement the efforts of the government in this noble cause. She also urged the teachers to work hard and acquire the latest knowledge and skills in order to better guide and train the students so that they could play an effective role in nation building.

Islamabad, September 29, 2009 NA Speaker Condemns Incident of Acid Throwing

N A SPEAKER CONDEMNS INCIDENT OF ACID THROWING

Islamabad; September 29, 2009. Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has strongly condemned the incident of acid throwing on a young girl named Noreen of Narangwal, District Faisalabad, yesterday.

Condemning the incident, the Speaker said that the acid throwing on the young girl was an inhuman and shameful act and highly condemnable. She said that no civilized society can allow such incidents unchecked and unpunished. She said that the acid throwing was reflection of the ignorance and barbarity that needed instant elimination.

The Speaker called upon the concern authorities to provide all necessary medical assistance to the victim and apprehend the culprit involved in this heinous crime and bring him to justice.

She sympathized with the victim and her family and prayed for her early recovery.

Islamabad, September 19, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Felicitates Nation on Eid-ul-Ritr

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER FELICITATES NATION ON EID-UL-FITR

Islamabad September 19, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has extended her warm greetings to the Muslim Parliamentarians and fellow countrymen on the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr falling on 21st September, 2009.

In her message, Speaker National Assembly said that she felicitates her elders, brothers, sisters and children on the joyous occasion of Eid. “We are thankful to Allah Almighty who gave us the opportunity to keep fasts, offer prayers and help our needy brothers and sisters during the month of Ramzan” the Speaker said.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that the Eid day brings happiness for us; however the true joy relates with taking care of the needs of our poor brothers and sisters and to include them in our pleasures. Our acts should help smoothen the social irregularities and promote the spirit of sacrifice, mutual harmony and fraternity. Only then we can provide strong foundation for the establishment of a welfare Islamic society, she said.

She said that on this day let us renew our pledge and pray for the prosperity and development of entire Muslim Ummah. She prayed to Allah Almighty to guide all the Muslims to us chose right path and help them follow the true spirit of Islam and protect them from every evil. “May Allah help and protect us all. Amen”, she added.

The Madam Speaker called upon the nation to stand united on every issue of national importance and support the democratically elected government so that it can prove before the world that we are alive nation with determination, unity and will power.

Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National assembly has extended eid mubarak to his fellow parliamentarians and the nation on Eid-ul-Fitr. He said that he felt very much honored in extending his warm felicitations to the entire nation and his fellow parliamentarians. He termed Eid-ul-Fitr a day to express gratitude before Allah Almighty for his blessings at the end of Ramazan-ul-Mubarak. He called for sharing the joys of Eid with the needy and marginalized segments of the society.

Islamabad, September 18, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker condemn the Suicidel Bomb Blast in Kohat

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDEMN THE SUICIDEL BOMB BLAST IN KOHAT

Islamabad; September 18, 2009. Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly have strongly condemned suicidel bomb blast in Kohat and expressed grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives.

In their separate messages, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker termed the blast a barbaric act of terrorism, which reflected inhuman and callous nature of the perpetrators. They said that the elements involved in such cowardice act were the enemies of the country and brought bad name to Islam and they will not succeed in their nefarious design. They called upon the law enforcing agencies to apprehend the criminals involved in this act of terrorism and bring them to justice.

The Speaker and Deputy Speaker prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the souls of the victims in eternal peace and grant the bereaved families the courage to bear the irreparable loss. They also sympathized with the injured and their families and prayed for their speedy recovery.

Islamabad, September 14, 2009 Democracy Inevitable for Peace, Stability and Development: Says Dr. Fehmida Mirza

DEMOCRACY INEVITABLE FOR PEACE, STABILITY AND DEVELOPMENT: SAYS DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA

Islamabad, September 14, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza has said that political leadership should forge unity and join hands in order to take Pakistan out of the present quagmire. She said that democracy is inevitable for peace, stability and development of the country. She said this in her statement on the International Democracy Day being commemorated worldwide under the auspicious of United Nations on Tuesday 15th September.

The Speaker said that democracy was a universal value, based on the freely expressed will of the people to determine their own political, economic, social and cultural system and their full participation in all aspects of life. In order to achieve this objective, it is incumbent upon the political leadership to shun their political differences and join hands to strengthen the democratic process in the country.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza stressing the continued need for promotion of democratization and development of the political system in the country said that democracy, peace, development and respect for human rights are inter-dependent phenomena and therefore, it is imperative for democracy to flourish. She said that the peopleâ€™s participation in the affairs of the country would ensure fundamental independence, equality, achievements of the needs of the people and restoration of law and order.

She said that involvement of the people in public affairs of the country ensures basic freedom and equality, fulfillment of the needs of people and preserve or restore peace. The Speaker said that the ultimate goal of democracy is to preserve and promote the dignity and fundamental rights of the individuals, to achieve social justice, foster the economic and social development of the community; strengthen the cohesion of society and building a propitious environment for international peace. She said that continuous electoral process ensures a democratic dispensation in the country.

Paying rich tributes to Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, the Speaker said, she embraced martyrdom in her struggle for restoration of democracy and rights of the people. She said her mission would be carried forward by the present democratic dispensation in the country.

Islamabad, September 7, 2009 Minister for Interior, Rehman Malik calls on Speaker NA

MINISTER FOR INTERIOR, REHMAN MALIK CALLS ON SPEAKER NA

Islamabad September 7, 2009: The NA Speaker Dr. Fehmida Mirza has said that security and law & order was the prime concern of the democratic government and all efforts being made to ensure the country’s security were having the full support of the parliament. Speaking to the Minister for Interior, Rehman Malik who called on her in the Parliament House today, the Speaker said that peace and security was a must for country’s progress and therefore should be ensured at all cost.

The Speaker said that the parliament has already passed unanimous resolutions regarding the security issues. She said that the recommendations of the Parliamentary Committee on security and passage of unanimous resolution regarding military action in Swat proved very helpful for restoration of peace and security in the country. She appreciated the velour and sacrifices of the security forces in the war against terrorism.

Interior Minister, Rehman Malik briefed the Madam Speaker about the security situation in the country. The Minister apprised the Speaker about the successes of the security forces in Swat and tribal areas. He said that security and law & order situation in the troubled areas today was totally different then it was 3 months back. He said that most of the IDPs have returned to their homes and they were helping the security forces in maintaining law & order there. He also apprised the Speaker about the security measures in Islamabad and the Parliament House.

Islamabad, September 7, 2009 WPC will hold National Women Convention from 30th Oct. to 1st Nov., 2009

WPC WILL HOLD NATIONAL WOMEN CONVENTION FROM 30TH OCT TO 1ST NOV

Islamabad September 7, 2009: Working Council of Women Parliamentary Caucus will hold a National Women Convention in Islamabad on Oct 30th to November 1st, 2009, with the theme “role of women parliamentarians in peace building and reconciliation”. The decision was made in a meeting of Working Council of the Women Parliamentary Caucus held in the Parliament House today. Chairing meeting of the Working Council of WPC, the Speaker National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that women empowerment was essential for development and prosperity as well as strengthening of democracy in the country. She said that women folk consisted of more than 50 % of the country’s population and could play a decisive role in country’s prosperity and progress.

She said that the Women Caucus in the Parliament was playing active role in empowerment of the women and was instrumental in making legislation for their protection. She said that the role of Women Caucus would be extended to all the four provinces and AJK and Gilgit Baltistan, adding that the ambit of the Caucus would further be extended to regional states at appropriate time.

The Working Council of the Women Parliamentary Caucus decided to hold a National Women Convention on 30th October to 1st November, 2009 in Islamabad with the theme “Role of Women Parliamentarians in peace building and reconciliation”.

Briefing the meeting of the Working Council, the Secretary General, Women’s Parliamentary Caucus, Miss Nafisa Shah informed that the convention will be an opportunity for parliamentarians and human rights activist of the country and the region to speak their voice and channelize their energies for the better and effective role for the reconciliation and peace and prosperity of the country and the region. She said that during the three days convention, various sessions will be held on the issues relating to peace, security and protection of women rights. She said that separate session on the women IDPs and Benazir Income Support Programme will also be held during the convention.

She said that the convention is being held at the time that coincides with the 10th anniversary of the UN Security Council Resolution on “Role of women in conflict and peace keeping” that was moved by Pakistan in the year 2000.

Islamabad, September 7, 2009 Literacy not just Reading, Writing – ‘It is About Respect, Opportunity and Development’: Says NA Speaker

LITERACY NOT JUST READING, WRITING – ‘IT IS ABOUT RESPECT, OPPORTUNITY AND DEVELOPMENT’: SAYS NA SPEAKER

Islamabad September 7, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that Literacy was imperative for sustainable human development in today’s complex and fast-changing societies. Therefore, we should strengthen our commitment to promoting global literacy and to back this support with the resources needed to achieve real progress. She said that in her message on the International Literacy Day being commemorated worldwide under the auspices of United Nation on 8 September. She said that this day serves us an opportunity to renew our international obligation and put the spotlight on the empowering role of literacy and its importance for participation, citizenship and development.

She said that literacy is not just about reading and writing, it is about self-respect and human dignity and about opportunities that give hope to individuals, families, communities and entire societies. Literacy, an integral part of the right to education, has shown itself time and time again to be a vital tool of empowerment. It is time for the right to education of all persons, of whatever age, to be realized in practice in order to help eradicate extreme poverty and increases opportunities besides promoting gender equality and environmental sustainability, she said.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that despite the fact that education and knowledge are the necessary passports to a better life, the scale of illiteracy is truly staggering. It is really astonishing that more than 800 million adults most of them women have no secure command of the fundamentals of literacy, millions of children are not in school and even for those who get a start on their education, drop-out rates are very high. She said that “even the simplest acquisition of literacy can have a profoundly empowering effect personally, socially and politically”.

She said that we should focus on the empowering role of literacy since literacy gives people tools with which to improve their livelihoods, participate in community decision-making, gain access to information about health care, and much else besides. Above all, it enables individuals to realize their rights as citizens and human beings, she added.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza called upon provincial and local governments, international organizations, civil society organizations and the private sector to give renewed attention and support to literacy as a vital instrument for achieving sustainable development especially in the rural areas. She said that each of us can make a contribution and all can be part of the solution.

Islamabad, September 6, 2009 (Nation Needs Courage and Valor of September 1965 to Confront the Present Day Challenges: Says NA Speaker

NATION NEEDS COURAGE AND VALOR OF SEPTEMBER 1965 TO CONFRONT THE PRESENT DAY CHALLENGES: SAYS NA SPEAKER

Islamabad September 6, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that the nation was confronting with many challenges and it needed the spirit of 6th September 1965 to face and fight these challenges successfully. In her message to the nation on Defense Day, being celebrated today, the Speaker said that it reminds us of the resolve and the courage displayed by the country Armed Forces and the people of Pakistan while defending their country during 1965 War against India.

The Speaker said that on that day the courageous soldiers of Pakistan defeated the numerically superior enemy and proved their worth for defense of the motherland. The Nation will always remember the unprecedented bravery and supreme sacrifices of the armed forces of the country she said.

The Speaker said that today the country was facing the threat of terrorism and extremism. This time the enemy is from within us and more dangerous but on this occasion too, the armed forces exhibited the same valour. The timely and prompt action of the armed forces backed by the resolve of the people of Pakistan has defeated terrorism, she added.

The Speaker said that today the nation needed the same unity and the spirit of September 1965 to resolve the problems it was confronting.

Islamabad, September 5, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condole the Death of Brother of Dr. Zaheer-ud-Din Babar Awan, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDOLE THE DEATH OF BROTHER OF DR. ZAHEER-U-DIN BABAR AWAN, FEDERAL MINISTER FOR PARLIAMENTARY AFFAIRS

Islamabad, September 05, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly have expressed grief over the sad demise of Khalid Mehmood Awan, elder brother of Dr. Zaheer-u-Din Babar Awan, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs.

In their separate messages, the Madam Speaker and the Deputy Speaker have prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss with equanimity.

Islamabad, September 2, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker condemn attack on Hamid Saeed Kazmi, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDEMN ATTACK ON HAMID SAEED KAZMI, FEDERAL MINISTER FOR RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS

Islamabad: September 2, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan have condemned the incident of firing on Hamid Saeed Kazmi, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs.

In their separate messages, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker said that the assassination attempt on Hamid Saeed Kazmi was conspiracy against the Islam and Democracy. The elements behind the incident wanted to weaken the democratic process and peace in the country but they will not succeed in their nefarious designs. They expressed hope that miscreants involved in the incident will be apprehended and punished according the law of the country.

Islamabad, August 26, 2009 (Speaker NA Condoling with the Leader of the Opposition the demise of his brother

Islamabad, August 26, 2009 Saudi Ambassador calls on Speaker NA

SAUDI AMBASSADOR CALLS ON SPEAKER NA

Islamabad: August 26, 2009: Pakistan values high its relations with Saudi Arabia and both the countries are tied in the eternal bonds of religion, history and culture. Saudi Arabia has always supported Pakistan in difficult times and is expected to play a leading role in Friends of Democratic Pakistan forum. These views were expressed by Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly, while talking to H.E Abdul Aziz Alghadeer, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, who called on her in Parliament House, today.

The Madam Speaker said that Pakistan wanted stability and peace in the region because it was necessary for prosperity and development of the region. She said that the menace of extremism and terrorism has adversely effected the region’s progress, and needed collective efforts to overcome it. She appreciated the Saudi Arabia’s role for peace and stability in the region.

The Madam Speaker said that democracy in Pakistan was flourishing and there was unanimity of views of all political forces on issues of national importance. She said that the adoption of unanimous resolution by all political parties on the issues of national security and curbing terrorism was a land mark achievement of the Parliament. The Speaker underlined the need for greater exchange of parliamentary delegations of both the countries for strengthening relations and establishing people to people contacts.

The Saudi Ambassador, Abdul Aziz Alghadeer said that his government wanted Pakistan to prosper and develop. The Ambassador stressed the need for spreading the true message of Islam for curbing extremism and terrorism. He assured Madam Speaker of his country’s support in all sectors of the economy.

Islamabad, August 24, 2009 Pakistan Needs Support to Strengthen Democracy: Speaker NA

PAKISTAN NEEDS SUPPORT TO STRENGTHEN DEMOCRACY: SPEAKER NA

Islamabad; August 24, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that despite many challenges, the new democratic set up in Pakistan was moving forward with great success. She said this while talking to Kenneth Wollack, President and Ms. Sheila Fruman, Country Director of the National Democratic Institute of America, who called on her in the Parliament House today.

The Speaker said that Pakistan was facing challenges like terrorism, extremism, poverty, illiteracy, inflation and energy shortages but the country was moving in the right direction and was successfully resolving the problems confronting it. She said that the war against extremism has caused great human crisis of IDPs that needed immediate rehabilitation.

The Speaker said Pakistan needed support of the international community to strengthen democracy, alleviate poverty and improve social well being of the people. The Speaker expressed her gratitude for US Government support for strengthening of democratic institutions in Pakistan and expressed hope that US will continue its support in this regard.

The Speaker said that women representation in public affairs was central to the functioning and strengthening of democracy and struggle against oppression. She said that the women were sufficiently represented in the Parliament in Pakistan and their performance in the Parliament was encouraging. She said that a women parliamentary caucus has been formed with the objectives of protecting women rights in the country.

The President of the National Democratic Institute of America, Kenneth Wollack, while talking on the occasion said that US wanted long term relations with Pakistan. He said that US wanted Pakistan a prosperous and peaceful democratic country.

He underlined the need for enhanced interaction between the parliamentarians of the two countries. He assured his country committed support to Madam Speaker to strengthen parliament and democratic institutions in Pakistan.

Islamabad, August 22, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condole the Death of Lt. Gen (R) Ch. Iftikhar Ali Khan Brother of Ch. Nisar Ali Khan, Opposition Leader in National Assembly

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDOLE THE DEATH OF LT. GEN (R) CH. IFTIKHAR ALI KHAN BROTHER OF CH.NISAR ALI KHAN, OPPOSITION LEADER IN NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

Islamabad: August 22, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan, have expressed grief and sorrow over the sad demise of Lt. Gen. (R) Ch. Iftikhar Ali Khan, brother of Ch. Nisar Ali Khan, Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly.

In their separate condolence messages to Ch. Nisar Ali Khan, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker said that Lt. Gen. (R) Ch. Iftikhar Ali Khan was a thorough professional and brave soldier who always served the country with devotions and dedications. His services for the defence of the country will be remembered for a long to come. They prayed to Almighty Allah to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage to the bereaved family to bear the irreparable loss with equanimity.

Islamabad, August 22, 2009 Dr. Fehmida Mirza Congratulates Nation on Advent of Ramazan

DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA CONGRATULATES NATION ON ADVENT OF RAMAZAN

Islamabad August 22, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has congratulated the nation on advent of Ramazan on Sunday 23rd August, 2009. In her message to the nation, the Speaker said that she was pleased to extend warm felicitation to all fellow citizens, many happy returns on the occasion of the arrival of blessed month of Ramazan.

She said that this month arrives to purify souls and replenish them with faith, piety and readiness for the life, thereafter. She said that this magnanimous month comes to discipline the souls for tolerance, humanity and shunning of haughtiness. She said that we should all plead to Almighty Allah for compassion and mercy, salvation from misdeeds, strength to recite and understand Quran and teaching of Holy Prophet (PBUH).

The Speaker said that in this holy month, Allah may grant us all stronger faith, manifest expression of brotherhood, affection, adherence to Islam and philanthropy making us all one entity.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza urged upon all the Pakistanis to share the joys and bounties of this holy month with our brethren in distress of FATA and Swat who have been displaced from their homes due the activities of mislead and deviant elements in the society. She prayed to Almighty to enable all of us to do what he is pleased with, bless Pakistan with peace, security and stability and eliminate extremism and terrorism from the country.

Islamabad, August 18, 2009 NA Speaker chairing meeting of Working Council of Women Parliamentary Caucus

NA SPEAKER CHAIRING MEETING OF WORKING COUNCIL OF WOMEN PARLIAMENTARY CAUCUS

Islamabad August 18, 2009: The Speaker National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza has said that war on terrorism and extremism had created great humanitarian crisis in the effected areas and has dislocated millions of people whose rehabilitation was the responsibility of the government, international community and the civil society. She said this while chairing the meeting of the General Assembly of Women Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) in the Parliament House today.

The Speaker said that the military action in the area had the backing of the entire nation and the parliament has adopted a unanimous resolution in this regard. She said that peace was the most wanted thing by the people that has returned to the area now and the economic activities as usual were being restored there. The Speaker also introduced the 1st born girl baby in IDPs Camp in Swabi who was named as Amn, to the members of WPC. The baby was adopted by the Speaker till the rehabilitation of the family in Buner. The gesture was widely lauded by the caucus.

The Madam Speaker said that financial independence of women was a must for their empowerment and appropriate legislation to the effect was under consideration. She said that legislation will be done for making the Women Bank more effective and a branch of the Bank will be opened in the Parliament House too. Besides announcing to open her account, the Speaker also urged the Women Parliamentarians to open their accounts in Women Bank. She said that soon after Ramzan a women convention will be held to discuss women issues in the country. She urged the women parliamentarians to play their role for better legislation regarding women empowerment.

Earlier the President of Women Bank Ms. Shaukat Sultana briefed the caucus about the structure, working and the advantages of Women Bank in Pakistan.

She said that the existing governing structure of the Bank needed to be reformed for making the Bank more effective. She said that Women Bank provided financial and banking facility to women at grass root with minimum guarantees and collaterals, besides providing employment opportunities to them. She also proposed enhanced control and shares of the Bank by the government.

Later on Ms. Nafisa Shah, Secretary General of WPC and Chairperson of NCHD informed the meeting about the delivery of goods and medicines to the IDPs during the visit of the women parliamentarians to the IDPs Camp in Mardan.

The meeting was attended by a large number of Women Parliamentarians

Islamabad, August 17, 2009 NA Speaker and Deputy Speaker Condemn Bomb Blast in Charsada

NA SPEAKER AND DEPUTY SPEAKER CONDEMN BOMB BLAST IN CHARSADA

Islamabad; August 17, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker and Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker National Assembly have strongly condemned bomb blast at a petrol pump in Charsada, and expressed grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives.

In a message, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker said that it is a barbaric act of terrorism, which reflected inhumane nature of the perpetrators. They said that a few misguided people were trying to disrupt peace in the country but they will not succeed in their nefarious designs. They said that the criminals were playing with the lives of innocent people without realizing that they can not save themselves from wrath of Allah. They called upon law enforcing agencies to apprehend the culprits involved in the blast and bring them to justice.

The Speaker and Deputy Speaker prayed Almighty Allah to rest the departed souls in eternal peace, sympathized with the injured and their families and prayed for their speedy recovery.

Islamabad, August 13, 2009 NA Speaker Dr. Fehmida Mirza Congratulates the People on Independence Day

NA SPEAKER DR. FEHMIDA MIRZA CONGRATULATES THE PEOPLE ON INDEPENDENCE DAY

Islamabad August 13, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that an independent Pakistan was a special blessing from Allah and now it is the responsibility of the people of this country to make it strong and prosperous. She said this in her message on the occasion of 62nd Independence Day Anniversary of Pakistan.

While congratulating the Nation on this auspicious occasion the Madam Speaker said that this day reminds us all the sacrifices and endeavors of the Muslims of the subcontinent to achieve independence While celebrating the Independence Day, it is incumbent upon us to revive the spirit of national unity and follow the Quaid guiding principles of Unity, Faith and discipline, She added. Let us make a firm resolve today to make all-out efforts to achieve the objectives of creation of Pakistan and also to make Pakistan a strong and a prosperous democratic country where will of the people, equality, justice and brotherhood reign supreme she said.

The Speaker said that this year the Independence Day has great importance because we have achieved our goal of restoration of democracy in the country. But at the same time we were also facing the unprecedented challenge of extremism and terrorism. She expressed her firm belief that nothing could stand before the will of the people. She said that the Parliament has passed a unanimous resolution and the entire nation is united on the issue of rooting out terrorism from the country.

Madam Speaker said that democracy was the best solution to all our problems, therefore, on this auspicious occasion let us resolve to work hard to strengthen democracy in Pakistan and follow the sayings of the father of the nation Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah. She said that democracy in Pakistan was at work and it is responsibility of every citizen to work for the strengthening the democratic institutions in the country.

Islamabad, August 12, 2009 NA Business Advisory Committee Meets

NA BUSINESS ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETS

Islamabad; August 12, 2009: The Business Advisory Committee of the National Assembly in its meeting has decided that the 15th NA Session will continue till 21st August instead of 18th August, 2009. The meeting also decided that security in the Parliament House will be tightened by adopting fool proof security measures. It was also decided that Souvenir shop will be established at an appropriate place in the Parliament House on the pattern of Souvenir shops in the parliaments of UK and USA. The meeting also decided that Independence Day celebrations in the Parliament House will be held on 13th August, 2009 on the pattern of previous year, by affixing badges by parliamentary leaders and playing of National Anthem in the House. It was decided that the whole proceedings of the session on 13th August will be live telecast on PTV. The meeting of the Business Advisory Committee was held in the Parliament House today and was presided over by the Speaker NA, Dr. Fehmida Mirza.

The meeting was attended by Faisal Karim Kundi, Deputy Speaker NA, Syed Khursheed Ahmed Shah, Minister for Labour and Mapower, Syed Naveed Qamer, Minister for Privatization, MNAs. Nawab Muhammad Yousaf Talpur, Sheikh Aftab Ahmed, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Ch. Muhammad Barjees Tahir, Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Mian Riaz Hussain Pirzada, Engineer Amir Muqam, Iqbal Muhammad Ali Khan and Mrs. Jamila Gillani.

Islamabad, August 12, 2009 Capacity Building of Legislators Essential for Better Legislation: Speaker NA

CAPACITY BUILDING OF LEGISLATORS ESSENTIAL FOR BETTER LEGISLATION: SPEAKER NA

Islamabad August 12, 2009: Proactive and dynamic legislation was necessary for progressive and welfare oriented societies and that could be possible only when legislators are well trained and equipped with latest legislative research and knowledge. The Speaker National Assembly, Dr. Fehmida Mirza who is also President of the Board of Governors of PIPS, said this while chairing the meeting of Board of Governors of the Institute of Parliamentary Services (PIPS) in Parliament House today.

The Speaker said that that the country was in dire need of an institution like PIPS for training and updating the legislators and added that PIPS will go a long way in providing training and research facilities to the legislators. She said that PIPS will prove helpful in capacity building of the parliamentarians and the staff of the National Assembly and Senate Secretariat and Provincial Assemblies. The Speaker said that the training and capacity building of the staff and parliamentarians by the PIPS will help in ensuring better legislation for the welfare of the people and will also strengthen the democratic institutions in the country. She said that our objective was to get maximum benefit from the institution but austerity will be observed at all cost.

Earlier Mr. Michel, the Director USAID, Islamabad and head of the PLSP Project briefed the Committee about the background and the existing set up of PIPS. He said that passage of legislation and securing of land for PIPS was the major achievement of the steering Committee and now PIPS will be handed over to Board of Governors. He also proposed formation of transitional Committee for smooth transfer of work from the Steering Committee to Board of Governors.

The members of the committee while expressing their views underlined the need for austerity in construction of institution and recruiting and training.

Those who attended the meeting included Deputy Chairman Senate/ Vice President PIPS, Mir Jan Muhammad Jamali, Senators. Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Syed Tahir Hussain Mashhadi, Dr. Khatu Mal Jeewan, MNAs Mia Riaz Hussain Pir Zada, S.A Iqbal Qadri, Pervaiz Khan Advocate, Ch. Muhammad Barjees Tahir, Mrs. Yasmeen Rehman, Syed Zafar Ali Shah and Zafar Beg Bhittaani.

Islamabad, August 11, 2009 Youth Key Partner for Sustainable Development of the World: Says NA Speaker

YOUTH KEY PARTNER FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE WORLD: SAYS NA SPEAKER

Islamabad August 11, 2009: Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker National Assembly has said that proper utilization of the youth potential could steer the world out of crisis recently being faced by it. She termed youth, key partner in sustainable development of the world. She said this in her message on International Youth Day, to be observed on 12 August under the auspices of United Nations.

She said that the world was facing multiple interconnected crises with severe and far-reaching impacts that fall disproportionately on the youth. She said that let us all resolve on this day to invest in and protect our most valuable resource, and give young men and women a fair and full stake in our society, and in its success.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that young people have proven themselves to be key partners in sustainable development; therefore, they should be engaged by the governments and communities to formulate poverty reduction strategies, entrepreneurial schemes and many other policies and initiatives. She said that youth deserves our commitment for full access to education, adequate health care, employment opportunities, financial services and full participation in public life. She said that youth comprises more than 25 per cent of the worldâ€™s working age population yet accounted for 40 per cent of the unemployed. In view of the global economic downturn; the youth unemployment may continue to climb, therefore, government should ensure financial, education and technical support made available to young people, and help them realize their potential.

Dr. Fehmida Mirza said that Pakistan was currently passing through a crucial period of history. The future of the country depends on the youth since active participation of educated young population plays vital role in development of the nation. She said that this situation necessitates intense efforts from both public and private sectors to play their role in transforming this populace into educated and trained human resource for the mutual benefit.