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| 11 May 2004 | Tuesday | 20 Rabi-ul-Awwal 1425 |
Pakistanis are not extremists, says Jamali
ISLAMABAD, May 10: Prime Minister Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali said on Monday that people of Pakistan did not believe in fanaticism or extremism, rather they believed in enlightened moderation.
"We are promoting an Islamic, moderate, enlightened and progressive society," the prime minister observed while talking to a delegation of foreign relations committee of the British parliament, which called on him at the PM's House.
He briefed the committee on Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, as well as on ties with other neighbouring nations, and Pakistan's role in the war on terror. He highlighted Pakistan's role in the reconstruction and rehabilitation process in Afghanistan.
Mr Jamali informed the committee that rail and road links were being established to provide greater access to Afghanistan and to Gwadar Port. He said Pakistan had initiated the process of composite dialogue with India to resolve all outstanding issues, including the core issue of Kashmir. "I believe that this will bring peace and stability to the region."
The prime minister said that Pakistan was paying a heavy price for its important role in the global war against terror. Referring to two attempts made on the life of President Musharraf, he said that since 9/11, the president had taken very bold decisions and joined the international coalition in the war on terror.
Despite constraints, "we will continue our efforts at eliminating this menace in order to make the world peaceful and worth living," said Mr Jamali. Commenting on the internal situation, he said: "We have changed the whole complexion of politics by introducing a culture of tolerance and accommodation."
He added: "Contrary to the previous practice, no member of the opposition has been harassed or victimized. Members belonging to the opposition have also been provided with equal funds for undertaking development schemes in their respective constituencies."
The prime minister said that the government was endeavouring to consolidate democratic institutions and promoting a healthy democratic culture both inside and outside parliament.
"We give due regard and respect to all elected members of parliament," he maintained. The committee lauded the country's role in global war against terror. It also praised Pakistan's contribution for the reconstruction of Afghanistan. -APP
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