Pakistani Prime Minister address to Envoys of EU, US, China, Russia and Japan

PRIME MINISTER SYED YUSUF RAZA GILANI'S REMARKS AT LUNCH HOSTED IN HONOUR OF HEADS OF MISSIONS OF EU, US, CHINA, RUSSIA AND JAPAN BASED IN ISLAMABAD

Excellencies,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Thank you for accepting my invitation. It is always a pleasure meeting you.

You represent important countries that are all good friends and partners of Pakistan.

We value the support extended by your governments and, in particular, for your understanding for the challenges Pakistan faces.

Let me give you a snapshot view about developments within Pakistan.

As you know, we have been subjected to a series of terrorist attacks. No city, no segment of the society has been spared. Over thirty thousand of our civilian and brave soldiers have lost their lives in the fight against terrorism.

The whole Nation as well as all State institutions are resolute in their determination that we will eliminate terrorism from our soil.

We have registered major successes in Swat, Malakand and South Waziristan. By no means are these small achievements.

We will persist with our efforts to stabilize those regions. Bring development, improve the socio-economic conditions and mainstream these areas politically.

The biggest challenge ensuing from the security situation is its detrimental impact on our economy. Recessionary trends, together with fuel and food price hike and floods, have also compounded the problem.

Energy deficit is another major issue. All these factors have contributed to rising poverty levels, unemployment and tremendous sufferings and pain to our people.

In a democratic set up, the Government has to be sensitive to public opinion. Nevertheless, our Government has taken bold decisions. I am in touch with all political party leaders. We will take all Parliamentary groups into confidence. I intend to proceed by developing political consensus in matters relating to economic reforms.

I would like you to note that democratic dispensation is best suited to developing consensus and taking the whole nation forward together. This indeed is my endeavour.

Recently, issues relating to minorities’ rights and implementation of blasphemy laws have been the subject of public debate. Concerns about rising extremist tendencies have also been mentioned.

I believe that these concerns are exaggerated and not entirely in consonance with Pakistan’s overall national ethos.

First, yes we are Muslims and are proud of being Muslims. Islam is a religion of peace and preaches tolerance. Radicalism and extremism is alien to Islam that emphasizes “the middle way”.

It is true that some fringe groups have tried to make political capital from the debate about blasphemy laws. This is a false debate. The real issue is the misuse of the law, for that matter any law by any one. We cannot allow such aberrations to happen.

The tragic assassination of Governor Salman Taseer has underscored the imperative need for the Pakistani society to marginalize and eliminate extremist tendencies.

Extremism of any kind poses a threat to civilized societies. It is anti-thetical to pristine Islamic values. Criminal elements, who seek to create social fissures and win impunity for their hideous acts, will not be allowed to do so.

Pakistani people are moderate, peaceful and progressive in outlook. The overwhelming majority does not subscribe to the distorted views of some demagogues. I recognize that the Government has to play its due role in strongly curbing any tendencies towards intolerance.

While pursuing the politics of reconciliation, we would continue to endeavour to create greater harmony. My Government and my Party is determined to ensure that democratic polity paves the way for complete societal harmony.

Excellencies,

Our Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all citizens irrespective of caste and creed. We have taken steps to empower the minorities politically. I assure you that as equal citizens, the minority communities will be enabled to fully enjoy their fundamental rights.

We have instituted mechanisms to promote human rights. This is foremost in the social agenda of our Government.

Excellencies,

You are witnessing a societal transition in Pakistan being reflected, most notably, in the political process; in our Parliament; in the media and in our Judiciary.

I have no doubt that Pakistan is moving fast and in the right direction. Our success in overcoming multiple challenges indicates the resilience of our people and State institutions.

Despite transient economic challenges, Pakistan has enormous potential for socio-economic development. Development remains our first strategic priority. We will pursue reforms. We will also pursue good governance.

We will also endeavour to promote peace and stability in our region.

As friends of Pakistan, we will continue to count on your understanding and support.

Thank you.

Islamabad, 13 January 2011