June 14, 2008	Saturday	Jamadi-us-Sani 09, 1429

GENEVA, June 13: The United Nations Human Rights Council has commended Pakistan for its commitment to human rights and democracy.

A number of countries, including China, Bahrain, Algeria, Kuwait, Indonesia and Morocco, welcomed steps taken by Pakistan to establish the rule of law and to commit resources for women empowerment, poverty eradication and improving lives of its citizens.

During a discussion on Pakistan’s report under the universal periodic review mechanism, Pakistan’s permanent representative Masood Khan said the government was committed to the rule of law and democracy, despite facing challenges of terrorism and extremism.

He reiterated that Pakistan was pursuing a policy of eradicating violence against women.

Referring to Pakistan’s report that was submitted in April 2008, the Indian delegation objected to the use of the term ‘Azad Jammu Kashmir’, claiming that it was “an integral part of India, illegally occupied by Pakistan”.

Pakistan rejected the claim and said that the entire state, including the Indian-occupied Kashmir was a “disputed territory awaiting a final settlement”.

Ambassador Masood Khan reiterated the government’s determination to ensure supremacy of the Constitution, respect for the rule of law and civil and political, as well as economic, social and cultural rights. —APP