ISLAMABAD, Feb 22: Commonwealth Secretary-General Don McKinnon has welcomed the ‘fair and peaceful general election’ held in Pakistan.

In a message to Election Commission Secretary Kanwar Mohammad Dilshad, Mr McKinnon said the elections were an important step in Pakistan’s journey towards democracy.

“The people of Pakistan have spoken and their voice must be heard and respected,” he said.

According to a press release issued here by the Election Commission, Mr Mckinnon expressed the hope that the democratic process would now be permitted to play its role fully, with the formation of a new government in accordance with constitutional procedures.

Mr McKinnon said the Commonwealth was keen to engage with the new government once it was formed, as Pakistan was important to the Commonwealth.

“We look forward to it once again playing its full role in the association once democracy is fully restored.

“We remain ready to assist towards the end.”

Pakistan was suspended from the 53-member club after the imposition of emergency on Nov 3 last year.