ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday expressed his government’s commitment to address the grievances of Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQMP) regarding local government system with consultation with allies.
“I assure you that the matter regarding proposed amendment concerning local bodies will be addressed through consultation and consensus among the coalition partners,” he said while speaking in the National Assembly.
Shehbaz said that the MQMP’s proposed amendment regarding the empowerment of local governments was fully supported by the federal government, but due to certain procedural and technical reasons, it could not be included in the constitutional amendment recently passed by parliament.
“I had assured our coalition partner MQMP that, after due consultations with all allied parties, including PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and other coalition leaders, we will resolve this issue with mutual understanding and consensus,” the prime minister added.
Meanwhile, speaking at an event organised by the British High Commission to celebrate the birthday of King Charles, PM Shehbaz lauded the UK’s monarch for leading an exemplary life of public service and showing unwavering commitment to global causes.
He said, “I have always been a great admirer of his majesty’s infinite energy and his dedication and unwavering commitment to global causes, which continue to inspire millions across United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and far beyond.” He appreciated the heartfelt condolences extended by the UK government on the dastardly terrorist attacks in Islamabad and other parts of Pakistan. “Terrorism remains a grave threat to global peace and stability,” he remarked, adding, “With its valiant armed forces and resilient people, Pakistan stands united and determined to confront and defeat this scourge in all its forms and manifestations.” He said, “Tonight as we celebrate his majesty’s birthday I recall my fond memories of the grand coronation ceremony that I attended personally two years ago. “Last year in September I received a warm telephone call from his majesty and we exchanged views on wide range of issues,” he continued. He said multifaceted partnership between Pakistan and the United Kingdom will not have progressed without the personal interest and patronage of the royal family. “We also celebrate the enduring friendship between Pakistan and United Kingdom,” he said, adding, “About two million British citizens of Pakistani heritage add great value to this relationship and are playing a very productive role in all walks of life in the United Kingdom. “Thousands of young Pakistanis have benefited from the programmes run by the British Council in Pakistan while thousands more have studied in British colleges and universities,” he added. “I am personally witness to the one of the finest programmes which was undertaken between DFID and the government of Punjab when I was heading the province,” he noted. “It was a programme for education, health and skill development. Now this partnership is increasing in the provinces of Pakistan.” The prime minister recalled with deep appreciation the numerous royal visits to Pakistan including the visit of King Charles in 2006 as well as the historic visit of Queen Elizabeth. He reiterated his cordial invitation to King Charles and the queen to visit Pakistan at the earliest convenience. The prime minister commended the British high commissioner for contributing meaningfully to promote bilateral relations. He mentioned her important role in the revival of PIA flights to the UK. “Now thousands of passengers fly to Manchester from Pakistan and soon there will be flights to London.” He conveyed his prayers and best wishes for happiness, health and long reign of King Charles. British High Commissioner Jane Marriott in her remarks talked about the growing ties between Pakistan and her country. Later, the prime minister along with the British HC cut the birthday cake. Ministers, members of parliament and people from different walks of life attended the ceremony.