peaker: (Terrorism, extremism, poverty global challenges: Ayaz)

ISLAMABAD: Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has said that terrorism, extremism, poverty, illiteracy and unemployment are the global challenges and these can be overcome through exchange of knowledge, expertise and experiences.

He was addressing the inaugural ceremony of the Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth Countries in Seychelles.

The Conference, being attended by delegates from 44 countries, was inaugurated by President of Seychelles (Mr.) Danny Faire.

Chairing the session on “Parliamentary Diplomacy”, the Speaker said that Parliament reflects the will of the people and its voice must be heard while deciding about matters relating to a country’s security and international image.

He noted that over the years, the parliaments’ role all over the globe had diversified as more and more Members of the Parliaments were tipped as international negotiators and peace-brokers.

He also informed the Speakers of the Commonwealth about his initiatives of forming 88 Friendship Groups in the National Assembly of Pakistan. These are instrumental in promoting bilateral relations of Pakistan with friendly countries.

Sardar Ayaz Sadiq will also meet Speakers and Presiding Officers of Commonwealth countries on sidelines of the meetings.