Former prime minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that the Swiss authorities decision not to reopen corruption cases against President Asif Ali Zardari, confirmed his position that the president has immunity within and outside the country.

Speaking to BBC Urdu, Gilani said that he took a principled stance on the issue and could not write the letter.

The former prime minster said during the interview, that the president of Pakistan enjoys immunity under Article 248 of the constitution.

He said that the letter written by current prime minister, Raja Pervez Ashraf also said that the president has immunity under the constitution.

He told BBC Urdu that he did not write a letter to Swiss authorities as a prime minister, but was given punishment as an individual.

Gilani said to revoke the punishment given, as an individual he appealed a review of the Supreme Court's decision.

"When the court hears my appeal, I will tell them my position that under the Geneva convention the letter could not be written," the former PM said.

Pakistani authorities were informed by Swiss authorities that alleged corruption cases against President Asif Ali Zardari cannot be reopened.

Information minister Qamar Zaman Kaira has said that the Swiss government's decision has vindicated the Pakistani govt's position.