Pakistan will not allow Islam to be hijaked - Zardari

Zardari: Pakistan stands by the will of people in Arab uprisings

(Photo: Today's Zaman)

10 December 2012 / SİNEM CENGİZ, ANKARA

Having paid a heavy price in their war against terrorism, Pakistan vows to prevent Islam from being hijacked, President Asif Ali Zardari said in an exclusive interview with Today's Zaman.

Sharing information on Pakistan's national unity in countering terrorism and extremism, Zardari recalled the losses his nation has suffered in their war against terrorism and reflected on its meaning for Pakistan as well as the region as a whole, where profound developments are taking place.

The Pakistani leader, while evaluating the developments taking place as part of the Arab Spring, said: “Pakistan desires that the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of [Arab] countries be respected and that the legitimate aspirations of the people be accommodated without resorting to violence.”

The Arab uprisings, which started at the end of 2010, resulted in the fall of the leaders in three Arab countries: Tunisia, Egypt and Libya. The uprisings of the people in Arab countries have been met with violent responses from the authorities.

Zardari, who is currently in Turkey for a two-day official visit, stated that there are incredible changes taking place in the Middle East. “There are popular demands for freedoms and democratic rights. The transformative process needs careful management and a broader consensus in order to avoid unintended consequences,” said Zardari.

The Pakistani leader spoke to Today's Zaman about several issues ranging from the Arab revolutions and Turkey's regional role, to Turkish-Pakistani bilateral relations and a trilateral summit between Turkey, Pakistan and Afghanistan.

When asked about the schedule of his visit to Turkey, Zardari stated that he would be meeting with top Turkish officials in Ankara and would attend the seventh Afghanistan-Pakistan-Turkey Trilateral Summit on Dec. 11-12. “I look forward to my meetings with Afghan President Hamid Karzai, Turkish President Abdullah Gül and Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Our main agenda is peace and stability in Afghanistan,” said Zardari.

Turkey-Pakistan enjoy ‘special relationship'

Touching on the bilateral relations between Turkey and Pakistan, Zardari stated that the two countries enjoy a “special relationship” that has few parallels in interstate relations. “These friendly ties are deeply embedded in our shared history and common cultural ethos. Physically we may live thousands of miles apart but our hearts beat together,” said Zardari.

The strength of Turkish-Pakistani relations is rooted in history. The support extended by Muslims of the subcontinent for the Turkish War of Independence occupies a special place in Turkish minds. The War of Independence and its success in establishing a modern state afterwards was a source of inspiration for Pakistanis since Aug. 14, 1947, the day Pakistan emerged as a sovereign state.

“It is our earnest endeavor to deepen, broaden and strengthen our partnership with Turkey in every field, especially in economic and commercial areas,” said Zardari.

Following the establishment of Pakistan, both countries extended support to each other during their most difficult times while cementing their friendly relations with frequent high-level visits.

“Regular high-level contacts between our leaders, business communities, academics, defense authorities, media and think tanks have further helped to cement this relationship,” Zardari said.

Zardari also praised Turkey's regional role, saying Turkey is a very important member of the international community. “Being part of Asia and Europe, Turkey really serves as a bridge between the East and West. We admire Turkey for its political stability and socioeconomic achievements and we greatly value Turkey's constructive role in promoting peace and stability in the region,” said Zardari.

The positive reflection of the excellent bilateral relations between the two countries can be seen in the international arena. Turkey and Pakistan support each other in all international platforms. Pakistan also adopts a highly supportive approach on international matters which are of special interest to Turkey.

Urgent need to enhance economic relations

Touching upon the economic relations between Turkey and Pakistan, Zardari stated that economic and commercial relations are not commensurate with the special historic relations.

“There is an urgent need to harness this potential and enhance trade by creating facilitative frameworks. As a first step, an early conclusion of a comprehensive and meaningful Preferential Trade Agreement [PTA] would certainly help to boost bilateral trade,” said Zardari.

Zardari also underlined that Pakistan is an investor friendly country, adding that it offers attractive incentives and complete legal protection to foreign investors.

Construction is the leading sector for Turkish investors in Pakistan. Turkish companies are becoming more active in the energy sector of Pakistan as well. Turkish firms built Pakistan's first wind turbines in 2009. In addition, Pakistan's volume of investment in Turkey is also growing.

“All sectors are open to foreign investment and foreign companies can now start their business on a 100 percent equity basis. Pakistan has always welcomed and encouraged Turkish companies to invest in the energy, infrastructure, housing, communications and agro-based industries. Pakistan is ready to offer special incentive packages and establish exclusive investment zones for Turkish companies,” Zardari said.

The Pakistani leader added that the positive momentum generated from the two meetings of the High-Level Cooperation Council (HLCC) must be sustained through vigorous follow-up of the decisions and agreements signed.

Zardari also put into words his pleasure over the activities of the Turkish Cooperation and Development Agency (TİKA) in Pakistan. “TİKA plays an important role. Its support and active involvement in the aftermath of the 2005 earthquake and the 2010 and 2011 floods was commendable,” said Zardari.

The humanitarian assistance which Turkey provided to Pakistan following the 2005 and 2008 earthquakes further strengthened the goodwill of Pakistanis towards Turkey.

TİKA is also preparing to restore items considered to be holy in Islam in Pakistan. For instance, it plans to restore a section at the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore, where items that belong to the Prophet Muhammad, his family and friends are housed.

“The proposed project by TİKA to help restore Islamic relics in one of Pakistan's largest mosques, the Badshahi Masjid, will be an excellent effort to preserve our common Islamic heritage,” said Zardari.

There are more than 50 items at the Badshahi Mosque which belong to the Holy Prophet, his family and friends. They are presently being kept in a room in the mosque.

Turkey-Pakistan can serve as ‘pillars of stability'

When asked what Turkey and Pakistan can do together for the stability of the region, Zardari said he believes Pakistan and Turkey, being democracies, can serve as “pillars of stability” for the broader region.

Turkey considers Pakistan, with whom it is bound with brotherly ties, as one of the prominent players for the security and stability of the region.

Turkey has close ties with both Pakistan and Afghanistan and has spearheaded efforts for peace between the two countries, whose ties are often strained due to the Taliban issue.

Touching upon the trilateral summit between Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey, Zardari stated that the trilateral process is an important initiative aimed at promoting peace, stability and socioeconomic development in Afghanistan. “We are grateful to Turkey for its continued support of the process since the very beginning in 2007. Today after six summit meetings, it has evolved into an institutionalized tripartite mechanism for cooperation in diverse fields,” said Zardari.

Turkey, by organizing the trilateral summits, deems the contributions to peace and stability in this region as a priority.

The Afghanistan-Pakistan-Turkey trilateral process was launched in April 2007 and subsequent trilateral summits were hosted by Turkey in 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011. The summits focused on cooperation to promote peace, security and economic development in the region.

The presidents of Pakistan and Afghanistan said in November 2011 that they hoped the trilateral summit between the two countries and Turkey would lead to a reduction of recently inflamed tensions.

Stable Afghanistan in Pakistan's national interest

Zardari says Pakistan and Afghanistan enjoy excellent relations. “Pakistan will continue to support the Afghan-led process of promoting peace and stability in Afghanistan. A peaceful, prosperous and stable Afghanistan is in our own national interest,” said Zardari.

Afghan-Pakistani relations were strained after both accused the other of supporting terrorist attacks and activities in their respective countries. Afghanistan also has accused the Pakistani intelligence agency of involvement in the recent assassination of former President Burhanuddin Rabbani.

“Both Afghanistan and Pakistan have a common challenge in combating terrorism and the drug menace. Both countries need to work closely to confront these challenges. During the recent visit of the Afghan foreign minister to Pakistan, we started negotiations for a Strategic Partnership Agreement [SPA],” said Zardari.

Meanwhile, the Turkish Parliament recently approved a protocol to train Afghan and Pakistani military personnel. The protocol commits members of the armed forces from all three countries to take part in further training and cooperation.

Touching upon the approval of the protocol, Zardari stated that Pakistan is grateful to Turkey for its positive and constructive role for promoting understanding and cooperation, especially security cooperation, amongst the three countries under the trilateral mechanism.

The military and intelligence chiefs of Afghanistan and Pakistan attended the trilateral summit for the first time in April 2009.

The Pakistani leader also touched on the decision by NATO to withdraw its forces by the end of 2014. The strategy agreed by NATO, its partners and the Afghan government is to enable Afghans to take over the war against the Taliban and other insurgents by the end of 2014.

“We are hopeful that with the international community's support, Afghan security forces will be in a position to take full control of the country by 2014. We also hope that the international community will continue to remain engaged and fulfill its commitments for the development of Afghanistan beyond 2014,” said Zardari.

Malala represents aspirations of Pakistanis

Touching upon the shooting of Malala Yousufzai by Taliban gunmen, Zardari said: “Our daughter, the young and heroic Malala Yousufzai, defied terrorists. She refused to bow to the evil forces who seek to impose their agenda. Malala truly represents the aspirations of common Pakistanis who consider militancy a threat to our country and the world.”

Taliban gunmen shot and critically wounded Yousufzai on Oct. 9 as she was returning home from school in Pakistan's northwest. The militant group targeted her because of her vocal support for girls' education and criticism of the insurgents' behavior when they took over the scenic Swat Valley, where she lived several years ago.

The Yousufzai incident received a lot of attention from around the world. In Washington, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton praised the young Pakistani girl. “She was attacked and shot by extremists who don't want girls to have an education and don't want girls to speak for themselves, and don't want girls to become leaders,” Clinton said.

At the United Nations, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon condemned the attack on Yousufzai, calling it a “heinous and cowardly act.”

Yousufzai is admired across Pakistan for exposing the Taliban's atrocities and advocating girls' education in the face of religious extremism.

‘Pakistani nation paid heavy price in war against terrorism'

The Pakistani leader stated that through Parliament, Pakistan has evolved a national consensus to counter terrorism and extremism.

“We cannot and will not allow Islam to be hijacked and will fight for the values and spirit of our great religion. The Pakistani nation has paid heavily in this war against terrorism. We have lost our great leader Shaheed Benazir Bhutto at the hands of terrorists,” said Zardari, who is the widower of Bhutto.

Bhutto, who served two non-consecutive terms as the first female prime minister of Pakistan, was assassinated in 2007.

The assassination of Bhutto was met with deep sadness in Turkey, which has had close ties with Pakistan since the South Asian nation's establishment 60 years ago, with politicians and leaders harshly condemning the killing and the Turkish Foreign Ministry describing the assassination as a “loathsome attack.”

“We shall be persistent in our struggle to defeat this mindset. Democracy, freedom and the support of our people are our best guarantees for success,” concluded Zardari.

Courtesy: Today's Zaman, 11 December 2012

http://www.todayszaman.com/news-300720-zardari-pakistan-stands-by-the-will-of-people-in-arab-uprisings.html

Pakistan Turkey relations to be further expanded – Ambassador Haroon

ANKARA, 8 December 2012:  Ambassador of Pakistan to Turkey H.E. Mr. Muhammad Haroon Shaukat has said that the existing brotherly relations between Pakistan and Turkey could be further enhanced with bilateral visits of journalists, acadamecians and parliamentarians. He was briefing a delegation of senior journalists from Pakistan who are currently on a visit to Turkey.

Ambassador said media is the conscience of people and play a pivotal role in the overall development of a country. He said media in Pakistan enjoys freedom and we are proud that this important institution of State is evolving into an effective tool of public information, education, and provide a plateform to discuss national issues. He said media has a vital role to play in promoting democracy, transparency and accountability.

The visiting Pakistani delegation included among others Mr. Tahir Hasan Khan – President of Karachi Press Club, Mr. Fazil Jamili – Vice President Karachi Press Club - Internet editor Jang newspaper, Mr. Ghulam Muhammad Jamali – President of Karachi Union of Journalists, Mr. Habib Khan Ghauri - Senior Correspondent – Dawn, Mr. Khalid Khokhar - Editor Sindhu, Mr. Manzar Naqvi - Executive Editor - Financial Daily, Mr. Maula Bukhsh Kalhoro - President Larkana Press Club, Mr. Saeed Jahan alias Lala Asad - President Sukkur Press Club, Mr. Saeed Khawar - Resident Editor - Nawa-e-Waqt, Ms. Khurshaid Haider - feature writer Dawn, Ms Zanobia Ilyas of CNBC and Dr. Zulfiqar Shallwani, Director General Public Relations of Government of Sindh.

More photos on http://goo.gl/7FFPz

President Zardari to visit Turkey

ANKARA, 8 December 2012:  President of Pakistan H.E. Mr. Asif Ali Zardari will pay a three-day official visit to Turkey from 11-13 December 2012 to attend the 7^th Afghanistan-Pakistan-Turkey Trilateral Summit alongwith President Hamid Karzai and President Abdullah Gul.

Ministers for Foreign Affairs, Communication, Interior and other high ranking military and civil officials will also participate in the meeting.

The Trilateral Ankara Summit provides a comprehensive platform for furthering high level political dialogue, security cooperation and development partnership among the three brotherly countries for bringing peace and stability in Afghanistan and the entire region.

Held under the theme of ‘connectivity,’ the meeting will focus on strengthening economic and commercial cooperation through improving the existing and developing new rail and road links.

Pakistani Parliamentary delegation meets with Turkish counterparts

ANKARA, 6 December 2012:  A parliamentary delegation from Pakistan led by Senator Haji Muhammad Adeel, Chairman of Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Kashmir & Gilgit-Baltistan today held meeting with the Chairman of Foreign Affairs Commission of Turkish Grand National Assembly (TGNA) Mr. Volkan Bozkir.

The Pakistani delegation included Senator Syed Muzafar Hussain Shah, Senator Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haideri, Senator Sehar Kamran and Mr. Amjad Pervez, Secretary of the Committee.

Senator Haji Adeel said Pakistan and Turkey have unanimity of views on global issues. He said his delegation has noticed visible progress in Turkey in the sectors such as health, education, housing and social security. This clearly demonstrates the welfare-state oriented polities of the present government, he said.

Mr. Volkan said Turkey supports the rights of the oppressed people. He renewed support for recognizing the legitimate rights of the people of Kashmir and stressed on the need to respect human rights. Mr. Volkan was of the view that visits by parliamentarians to each other country have added a new dimension to diplomacy. He also proposed convening Afghanistan-Pakistan-Turkey trilateral meeting of the foreign affairs committees of the respective parliaments.

Earlier, Haji Adeel and members of his delegation visited the the Mausoleum of the founder of modern Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, and laid floral wreath on Ataturk’s tomb.

Pakistani Parliamentary delegation meets with Turkish President, TGNA Speaker

ANKARA, 6 December 2012:  A four member parliamentary delegation of Senators from Pakistan was was warmly received by the Turkish President Mr. Abdullah Gul here today.

Led by Chairman of Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Kashmir & Gilgit Baltistan Haji Muhammad Adeel, the delegation included Senator Syed Muzafar Hussain Shah, Senator Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haideri, Senator Sehar Kamran and Mr. Amjad Pervez, Secretary of the Committee.

President Gul said that the visit of Senate Parliamentary delegation is very important and meaningful for further enhancing the existing extra-ordinary good relations between Pakistan and Turkey. He said both the countries have traditions of supporting each other at international fora on various issues. Referring to the visit of the delegation to Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, he thanked them for the support for a peaceful and lasting solution of the Cyprus issue.

On Kashmir issue, President Gul stated that there is a great deal of awareness about the Kashmir issue in Turkey. He said Kashmir issue was a product of the unjust international system. Commending Pakistan for its positive stand on the issue, Mr. Gul expressed the hope that the dialogue between the leadership of Pakistan and India would lead to an amicable solution.

On bilateral economic and commercial relations, President Gul said that the two countries are working on multiple tracks to boost trade and investment links. Mentioning ‘Gul train’ he said with efficient operation and reduction in its duration, the cargo train can play an important role in augmenting trade links between the two countries and beyond.

Referring to the forthcoming 7th trilateral Afghanistan-Pakistan-Turkey summit being held in Ankara, President Gul said he is looking forward to meet President Zardari. He said that he was fully aware with Pakistan’s difficulties arising out of instability in Afghanistan and the three countries are working through trilateral process to bring peace, stability and development in Afghanistan.

Senators thanked President Gul for his strong support and friendship with Pakistan. They informed that the long-lasting special relations of Pakistan and Turkey enjoy all the support across the political divide.

Group photo of Pakistan delegation with TGNA Speaker. Pakistan Embassy photo

Haji Adeel also showed gratitude for Turkey’s solidarity and assistance during natural disasters in Pakistan. He said Pakistan and Turkey are two important Muslim countries and can play a critical role for resolution of outstanding disputes like Cyprus, Kashmir and Palestine through concerted and united efforts of the Islamic world. 

The visiting delegation also met with Speaker of Turkish Grand National Assembly (TGNA) Mr. Cemil Çiçek (pronounced as Jamil Chichek). Mr. Cemil Çiçek said such an exchange of parliamentary delegations will help boost our relations and shall help in evolving joint strategies to tackle common issues.

Haji Adeel said Turkey is our second home and appreciated Turkish support for the cause of oppressed people of Indian Occupied Kashmir. 

Pakistani Parliamentary delegation discuss strengthening of defence relations with Turkish parliamentarians

ANKARA, 7 December 2012:  A four member parliamentary delegation of Senators from Pakistan met today with Chairman of the National Defence Committee of the Turkish Grand National Assembly Mr. Oğuz Kağan Koksal and discussed various proposals to further strengthen Turkey-Pakistan relations.

Led by Chairman of Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Kashmir & Gilgit Baltistan Haji Muhammad Adeel, the Pakistani delegation included Senator Syed Muzafar Hussain Shah, Senator Maulana Abdul Ghafoor Haideri, Senator Sehar Kamran and Mr. Amjad Pervez, Secretary of the Committee.

Mr. Oğuz Kağan Koksal said Pakistan-Turkey relations are deep rooted in history. “We wish that our relations to grow in multidimentional fields such as defence, commerce, education and culture,” he said. Referring to the recent visit by the delegation to Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Mr. Oğuz said this visit highlighted the plight of the people of TRNC and showed his gratitude for such gesture by Pakistani parliamentarians.

Haji Adeel also termed bilateral exemplary and said Turkey is our second home. Referring to the ongoing project of midlife ugrade of Pakistan’s F-16 fighters in Turkey, Haji Adeel said it is a symbol of our long lasting defence ties.

Senator Sehar Kamran appreciated Turkish defence sector industries’ participation in IDEAS 2012, a defence exhibition recently organized by Pakistan in Karachi. She appreciated Turkey’s positive role for the resolution of issues such as Palestine, Cyprus and Kashmir. Referring to post 2014 situation in Afghanistan, she hoped that the leaders of Afghanistan, Pakistan and Turkey will discuss measures to bring peace and stability in the region in the forthcoming trilateral summit being held in Ankara from 11-12 December. She thanked Turkey for supporting the cause of the oppressed people of Indian Occupied Kashmir. She said Kashmir is beyond territorial dispute and involves recognizing the universally accepted right of self-determination of the people of Kashmir.

Senator Abdul Ghafoor Haideri added that over 700,000 Indian forces are deployed in the Indian Occupied Kashmir and the people there are subjected to worst kind of human right abuses.

More photos on the link: http://goo.gl/VQM2z

Modern Pakistani literature introduced to Turkey / Modern Pakistan Edebiyatı Türkiye’ye tanıtılıyor

ANKARA, 28 November 2012:  Launching ceremony of Colonel (retired) Masud Akhtar Sheikh’s recent book “Modern Pakistan Literature,” was held here today under the auspices of Writers Union of Turkey. Written in Turkish language, the book is a selection of short stories and poems by contemporary Pakistani writers and poets, both national and regional. 

Introducing his book, Masud Akhtar Sheikh said “Modern Pakistan Edebiyati” is the first book written in Turkish language to introduce Pakistani literary figures and their works to Turkish public. He said despite his old age, his love for Turkey compels him to contribute more towards bringing the two brotherly countries together with such efforts. Translating books written by eminent writers both in Turkey and Pakistan would further develop understanding and shall bring the people of the two countries together, said Mr. Masud.

The audience suggested more translations of the books of Muhammad Iqbal, Pakistan’s national poet and Mehmet Akif Ersoy, Turkey’s noted peot. They also proposed to name a street in a Turkish city after Masud Akhtar Sheikh.

Earlier Deputy Chairman of the Writers Union of Turkey Mr. Ahmet FİDAN introduced the author. Members of Turkish academia and media persons attended the event.

Masud Akhtar Shaikh is the author of 24 books. His writings include many literary works of eminent Turkish writers, such as Orhan Kemal, Necip Fazil Kisakü, Nazim Hikmet, Fethullah Gulen, Reşat Nuri Guntekin, Ali Nar, Yaşar Kemal, Aziz Nesin, and Ismet Bozdağ. About 20 of his writings are stories, poems and novels translated from Turkish to Urdu and English. Mr. Masud has also contributed over 500 articles on Turkey, Cyprus and the Armenian issue.

ENDS

More photos on http://goo.gl/EDF0V

Turkish version

ANKARA, 28 Kasım 2012: Emekli Albay Mesud Akhtar Şeyh’in “Modern Pakistan Edebiyatı” adlı son kitabının tanıtma toplantısı bugün Türkiye Yazarlar Birliği’nin desteği ile düzenlendi. Türkçe olarak yazılmış kitap, ulusal ve bölgesel modern Pakistanlı yazarların ve şairlerin hikayeleri ve şiirlerinden oluşmaktadır.

Kitabını tanıtırken, Mesud Akhtar Şeyh “Modern Pakistan Edebiyatı” adlı kitabının Türk insanlarına Pakistanlı edebiyatçılarını ve çalışmalarını tanıtacak ilk  Türkçe yazılmış kitap olduğunu söyledi. Şeyh, ilerlemiş yaşına rağmen, Türkiye’ye karşı duyduğu sevginin, iki kardeş ülkenin yakınlaşmasına katkıda bulunan buna benzer çalışmalar yapmaya ittiğini söyledi. Ayrıca, Türk ve Pakistanlı tanınmış yazarlarının kitaplarının tercüme edilmesi, iki ülkenin insanları arasındaki anlayışı geliştireceğini ve insanları yakınlaştıracağını söyledi.

Toplantıya katılan okuyucular, Pakistan’ın ulusal şairi olan Muhammad İkbal’in kitaplarını ve ünlü Türk şair Mehmet Akif Ersoy’un kitaplarının tercümesini önerdi. Aynı zamanda, Mesud Akhtar Şeyh’in adını Türk bir şehirdeki bir sokağa vermeye teklif ettiler.

Başlangıçta, Türkiye Yazarlar Birliği Genel Başkan Yardımcısı Sayın Ahmet FİDAN, yazarı tanıttı. Türk akademisyenler ve basın toplantıya katıldılar.

Mesud Akhtar Şeyh 24 kitap yazmıştır. Kitapları Orhan Kemal, Necip Fazil Kisakü, Nazim Hikmet, Fethullah Gulen, Reşat Nuri Guntekin, Ali Nar, Yaşar Kemal, Aziz Nesin, and Ismet Bozdağ gibi birçok tanınmış Türk yazarların edebiyat çalışmalarından oluşuyor. Kitaplarının yirmisi Türkçe’den Orduca ve İngilizce’ye tercüme edilmiş öykü, şiir ve romandır. Sayın Mesud aynı zamanda 500’ün üzerinde Türkiye, Kıbrıs ve Ermeni konusuyla ilgili makale yazmıştır.

Pakistan urges D-8 countries to work for regional development

ISLAMABAD, Nov. 22 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari emphasizing the need for better cooperation among the members of the D-8 called upon them to work sincerely for finding the development solutions for their one billion people with focus on encouraging the free flow of goods, free flow of peoples and free flow of finances. Addressing the inaugural session of 8th summit of the D-8 countries here at Aiwan-e-Sadr, on the theme of “Democratic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity” after assuming chairmanship of the organization from Nigerian President, the President said presence of the heads of state and government of D-8 countries today reflects collective determination to use this platform for finding solutions.

President Zardari said people of Pakistan stand with their brothers and sisters across the D-8 world in pursuit of democracy, peace and prosperity.
Zardari put forward several proposals for fostering economic cooperation among member countries. He emphasized the need for Trade and Development Banks; encouraging private sector, facilitating contacts between chambers of commerce and investment houses of the member countries; simplification of visa and customs procedures and barter trade.
The President said, “We must grow our economies, and provide our people with jobs and security.” He said the D-8 has the potential to advance this agenda.
He expressed the hope that the initiatives being declared at this Summit will make a difference.
About the D-8 Charter, signed today, the President said it will cement the joint undertakings. He said the D-8 Global Vision will be a giant step forward towards achieving long term objectives and the Islamabad Declaration will build upon the roadmap.
He urged the members of the D-8 to endorse once again the core values of D-8; that include peace, dialogue and cooperation, justice, equality and moderation, democracy, rule of law and harmony, and peaceful co-existence and inclusion.
He said most of D-8 countries have already ratified the PTA and there is need to operationalize it without delay.
The President said D-8 countries represent a huge untapped reservoir that can serve as a catalyst for peace and prosperity around  the world.
He said, “Our people want peace within the country and peace with our neighbours.”
He said Pakistan is making unprecedented efforts to normalize relations with India and supports Afghanistan’s own roadmap for peace and reconciliation.  This is the vision of a democratic people that seek peace and prosperity, he added.
The President said one of the most serious threats facing Pakistan is international terrorism adding that terrorists, both from within Pakistan, and from abroad, seek to impose their agenda.
“We cannot and will not allow Islam to be hijacked and will fight for our values and will fight for the spirit of our great religion that our Holy Prophet (Peace be upon him) gave to use,” he added.
President Zardari said, “We are fighting the terrorists’ dark and destructive vision every day. Our soldiers, policemen and political workers serve on the front lines of this fight.”
He thanked the outgoing Chairman of D-8, President of Nigeria for his leadership of the Organization during the last 2 years.
He said today, the D-8 is not just eight developing countries but all the eight countries have democracy.
He said, “We always shared common bonds of religion and culture. We are also bound, by the will and spirit of our people.”
He said the leaders of the D-8 democracies are answerable to one billion people of the region and owe them a journey towards a better future.
Giving the example of democratic process in Pakistan, the President said five years ago, his country began a dream and a new democratic journey.
“Our mission was to achieve a better future for our people and a future of better lives, with dignity, with freedom, with rule of law,” he added.
He said the presence of the leaders of the D-8 is a measure of solidarity with Pakistan adding “it gives us strength and hardens our resolve.
He hoped that the D-8 Summit in Islamabad will open new chapters of cooperation and understanding among the member states.  Referring to Pak-Turkey relations, the President said Pakistan’s deep commitment to and friendship with brothers and sisters in Turkey is no secret.
He said Turkish leadership, on economic issues in particular, has been exceptional and thanked Turkey for its support and commitment.
Commenting on Pak-Iran relations, the President said  with Iran Pakistan’s destiny is inter-linked. “We are neighbors and are located in the same region,” he added.
The President said, “We have worked closely with our brothers and sisters in Iran and will continue to support peaceful ways to help resolve disagreements between Iran and other parties.”
He said Indonesia has a long and glowing record of standing by Pakistan in its hours of need across many decades.
The President said today, Indonesia helps light path by demonstrating how to negotiate the challenges of growing an economy, while maintaining peace in a diverse society.
“Democracy and the struggle against oppression is something we also share with our brothers and sisters in Egypt,” said the President.
He said, “We were amazed as, last year, Egyptians took to Tahrir Square to build an Egypt of their choice.”  He saluted the heroism of the Egyptian youth and assured full support from Pakistan.
Congratulating President Morsi of Egypt, the President said “We wanted him to be here today. We are proud of the leadership he has shown. We understand the reason for his absence.”
He said Pakistan knew about the mortal threat being faced by Nigeria at the hands of Boko Harma extremist group and expressed solidarity with them.
He said Al-Qaeda affiliates in Pakistan, like the TTP, pose serious threats to  aspirations for the future and to very identity.  He said, “I commend President Goodluck’s leadership in a time of great complexity. We hope our countries grow closer as a result of this visit.”
President Zardari said Malaysia is a model of how diversity and discipline can drive a nation’s economy.
The President said together, the D-8 countries represent eight very important nations and individually, they represent countries with whom relationship goes far beyond the ordinary. He said for Pakistan the D-8 represents a partnership that can help cement these bonds.
Commenting on the present Palestine situation, the President said the people of Palestine continue to suffer the Israeli aggression.
President Zardari said, “We condemn the recent attacks in Gaza which have led to the loss of innocent lives. The people of Kashmir continue to suffer unjust occupation.” He said for decades they have been awaiting the promised self-determination adding “We must address these issues rather than blaming others, we need to take charge of our destinies.”
He said D-8 Business Forum, meetings of heads of central banks, trade promotion organizations and trade exhibitions are very important initiatives to help in economic growth.
He said there is need to encourage the private sector in trade and development banking among the D-8 countries.
He said there is need to facilitate contacts between chambers of commerce and investment houses.
The President said, “We also need to encourage interactions between our parliaments, scholars, students, judges, artists, media and civil society organizations and for this purpose there is need to simplify visa and customs procedures.”
He said most the members have ratified the PTA and there is need that others should ratify it and it should be made operational.
The President said Pakistan was achieved through democratic struggle led by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and adding “democracy is in our veins.”
He said when his wife and leader of Pakistan, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was assassinated by terrorists in December 2007, this country came together to mourn, and to rebuild and that commitment continues to this day.
Referring to huge untapped reservoir of D-8, the President said reservoir can serve as a catalyst for peace and prosperity around the world.
He said the best way to harness collective potential is to put trust in the people of the region.
He said “Our people want peace within the country and peace with our neighbors.” He said the government is making unprecedented efforts to normalize relations with India.
“We support Afghanistan’s own roadmap for peace and reconciliation,” he added.
The President said this is the vision of a democratic people that seek peace and prosperity.
He said, “As we build the Pakistan of our Shaheed Leader, Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto - a democratic, prosperous, peaceful Pakistan - we are proud to host this historic summit.”
He said from food security to climate change to demographic pressures, people are facing many challenges.

President Zardari stresses on conclusion of Pak-Turkey trade agreement

Islamabad:  November 21, 2012:  President Asif Ali Zardari Wednesday emphasized the need for fast tracking the conclusion of Pakistan-Turkey Preferential Trade Agreement and creating facilitative mechanisms and opportunities for the investors and private sectors of the two countries to bolster bilateral trade to new heights and to achieve the mutually agreed trade target of $ 2 billion. The President welcomed the recent suggestion from the Turkish side to include mutual concessions within the ambit of the PTA. “It is high time to translate the gains of the excellent political relations between the two countries for qualitative up-gradation in our bilateral economic and commercial ties”.

The President said this during his meeting with Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the Aiwan-e- Sadr today on the sidelines of Eighth D-8 Summit.

Turkish Prime Minister was assisted by Mr. Ahmet DAVUTOGLU, foreign minister, Mr. Omer CELIK MNA, Vice Chairman, AK Party, Mr. Nukhet HOTAR, MNA, vice Chairman AK party, Mr. NurettinCANIKLI, MNA, parliamentary group Deputy President, AK, Party, Mr. Yalcin AKDOGAN, MNA, advisor to Chairman, AK Party, Mr. Cevdet ERDOL, MNA, AK Party, Mr. Mehmet CEYLAN, deputy Minster of development, Turkish ambassador Mustafa Babar Hizlan and other senior officials.

From Pakistan side, those who attended the meeting included among others Syed Yusaf Raza Gilani, former Prime Minister, Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar, foreign Minister, Dr. Abdul Hafeez Sheikh, finance minister, Mian Manzoor Ahmed Watto, Minister of Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan, Mr. Qamar Zaman Kaira, minister for Information & Broadcasting, Mr. M. Salman Faruqui, Secretary General to the President, Mr. Jalil Abbas Jilani, Secretary foreign affairs, Governor State Bank and other senior officials.

Briefing about the meeting, Spokesperson to the President senator Farhatullah Babar said that the two leaders held wide-ranging discussions on bilateral, regional and international issues, peace process in Afghanistan and the situation in Middle East.

The President welcomed Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s visit to Pakistan to attend D-8 Summit and expressed hope that the summit with its distinct trade promotion focus would further energize economic ties within the D-8 family.

The President said that by hosting 8th summit of D –8 countries, we commit our complete support to the vision of Muslim solidarity conceived by late Prime Minister Erbakan. He said that D-8 holds great potential to build on the synergies that exist between the 8 leading Muslim member states, adding that Summit has gained further importance as it was taking place at a time when the Muslim World was facing unprecedented challenges from North Africa to Afghanistan. The Spokesperson said that President stressed for a proactive role to ensure that this process of change and transformation is materialized in a peaceful manner and without causing disruptions in Muslim societies.

On situation in Middle East, the President said that Pakistan appreciates the democratic transformations in the Middle East and the broader Islamic World and believed that this transformation should be peaceful without resorting to violence, without external interference and in accordance with the aspirations of the people. The President expressed support and solidarity with Turkey on grave incident of shelling across its border from Syrian side in which Turkish citizens lost their lives.

The President lauded Turkey’s constructive role in Afghanistan and the valuable contributions under the ambit of the trilateral mechanism as well as the Istanbul process. The President urged the need for the two countries to intensify cooperation, both bilaterally as well as under the trilateral mechanism to support an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned process of reconciliation. The President said that he was looking forward to attend Trilateral Summit in Ankara next month.

On drug trafficking, the President said that both Turkey and Pakistan should play its proactive role and sensitize the world about the close linkage between narco-trade and terrorism in the region. Narco-trade was a great source of financing for terrorism, he said and added that Afghanistan would remain unstable and cause instability in the region and beyond unless immediate remedial measures are taken to eradicate narcotic drugs from the country.

Discussing bilateral relations, the two leaders expressed satisfaction on the current state of bilateral ties and agreed that Turkey and Pakistan enjoy exemplary relations which go beyond the governments and are rooted in common history, culture and ethos of our people. They also urged for early implementation of bilateral agreements signed between the two countries, which they hoped, would further deepen bilateral relationship in all fields.

The President during the meeting invited Turkish investment in key sectors such as infrastructure, housing, engineering, energy, agriculture, telecommunications and mining and said that it was encouraging that private sectors of the two countries are collaborating in the energy, construction, food processing and rubber industries.

On Gul Train, the President said that Pakistan was keenly interested in the project and thanked the Turkish Prime Minister for his personal interest in Gul Train project. The President expressed hope that The “Gül train” project would revolutionize cargo and transit facilities between our two countries and urged the need to formulate speedy border crossing formalities, harmonize customs procedures and generate cargo by larger involvement of the private sector to make the project a success. He said that Pakistan and Turkey together with Iran needed to take all the necessary steps to fast track the finalization of the key issues in the project.

Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said that Pak- Turkey bilateral relationship would grow with every passing day and touch new heights in the near future. He appreciated the huge sacrifices made by Pakistan in the fight against militancy and terrorism and assured all out support of the Turkish government in this regard. The Prime minister urged for close bilateral cooperation at various levels to further strengthen bilateral relations particularly trade and investment ties.

D-8 stands for prosperity by S. Rehman, The News, 22 November 2012

If one were to carry out objective assessment of Pakistan’s image abroad in the present-day world, one will be left with no option other than taking pride in the present leadership that draws inspiration from President Zardari’s mission to regain the lost glory that was once Pakistan.
May it be the president’s visit to China or other countries of the world including the countries of brotherly Middle East and that of Central Asia — or elsewhere — he is taking pains to present the true, moderate and modern face of the country. President Zardari is rather known for his extraordinary international bonhomie and although this cheerfulness owes to his individual psyche, it is never detached from his proven love for his homeland. As such, the president is always making use of his worldwide acceptability to earn prosperity for the country besides bringing it honour in the comity of nations. 
Those who have closely monitored Zardari’s functioning, opine that his policy of reconciliation is not a strategy. It is rather an extension of his established approach of life. And he has intentionally extended this policy of reconciliation to the global level. It is because of this reason that Pakistan has become considerably relevant on the world map. For sure, it is not because of its war on terror but due to its soft image that Pakistan has gained significance in the international fraternity. This soft image of Pakistan just can’t be tarnished by any acts of terrorism, courtesy the painstaking efforts of PPP-government in general and President Asif Ali Zardari in particular to depict the country’s true, humanitarian, moderate face before the world. 
This implies Pakistan’s strength and stability, a goal that the PPP-led government is pursuing vigorously by seizing every opportunity to promote global goodwill and amity. 
Even the eighth Summit of the D-8 being held in Islamabad, is seen as an opportunity for Pakistan’s greater strength and prosperity with the cooperation of regional partners in the developing world. The theme of the Summit is praiseworthy. The theme is “Democratic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity” and it underlines the importance of democracy as the fountainhead for achieving peace and prosperity for its people and promoting cooperation with the developing countries. Heads of state/government and leaders of delegations from member-countries will attend the summit. They include Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi, Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Nigerian President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, and Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Malaysia will be represented at deputy-prime-minister level and Bangladesh at ministerial level.
President Asif Ali Zardari will chair the Summit meeting. The Islamabad Summit not only coincides with the 15th anniversary of the D-8 but also with the completion of five-year term, for the first time in Pakistan’s history, of a popularly elected civilian government despite so many impediments and perils. This democratic achievement of Pakistan has also positively projected its global image and it is going to get further boost during the D-8 summit that promises hope for the member countries, more so for Pakistan in many ways. 
On assuming chairmanship of D-8, Pakistan’s standing in the South block will be strengthened and Pakistan’s profile will get projection at the regional and international levels. It will also improve regional connectivity of Pakistan in the trade and business sectors besides enhancing its global interaction during its chair (2012-2014), with other organizations notably OIC, ECO and interface with ASEAN. Pakistan’s business community in particular views it as a golden opportunity for enhanced cooperation in trade and business among the D-8 countries because the private sector in Pakistan would be able to create networking with their counterparts in other D-8 countries, aimed at launching joint ventures and synergizing corporate and business sector representatives’ interaction with the private sector of D-8 countries.
Government of Pakistan has paid special attention to the active participation of business community which has been motivated through solid incentives and business-and-public friendly policies of the PPP-led government. This in turn will help Pakistan in transacting with the D-8 countries with a unified approach based on an ever-flourishing public-private partnership. This strengthened public-private partnership in Pakistan is taken for a big economic accomplishment in other countries and it creates yet greater opportunities for bringing foreign financial and technological assistance in the country. The Summit 2012 is poised to further its agenda of development cooperation among member-countries and it will consider and adopt, inter alia, the following on recommendation of the D-8 Council and the Commission:-
D-8 Charter, D-8 Global Vision for next two decades, Islamabad Declaration 2012 & appointment of new Secretary-General of the D-8.
Equally significant are the sideline events that would cover a wide range of activities including D-8 Business Forum, to be attended by corporate leaders/private-sector and eminent CEOs from Pakistan and other D-8 countries with focus on these themes: Infrastructure Development through public-private partnership in D-8 countries, Value-addition in textile sector & joint venture possibilities, opportunities & challenges in alternate energy sector and engineering sector and agro-based industries as future of D-8.
Other important activities will include meeting of heads of Central Banks with focus on identifying possible areas for cooperation on financial and monetary issues, particularly in the field of Islamic banking and meeting of heads of Trade Promotion Organizations (TPOs). The latter event’s agenda features exchange of views on possible areas of cooperation for promotion of trade, implementation of PTA and agreement on Visa facilitation for businessmen, and development of Halal Sector and capacity building of the member States.
A trade exhibition is also scheduled to be held followed by an Interactive Seminar.
Recommendations of the above sideline events would be submitted to the Summit for consideration including Report of D-8 Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry on private-sector led cooperation.
And it is believed that the Summit will also build confidence of the international community, in particular and help in removing misperceptions created in a section of international media.
Here, it would be pertinent to mention one landmark achievement of D-8 and that is its 10-year roadmap for Economic and Social Cooperation for the period 2008-2018. 
This roadmap sets benchmarks to be achieved in different areas. For instance, the roadmap envisages increase in intra D-8 trade to $ 517.5 billion by 2018. The D-8 has also finalized three framework agreements, namely Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA); Agreement on Simplification of Visa Procedures for Businessmen of Member States and Agreement on Mutual Assistance in Customs Matters. Pakistan has signed and ratified these agreements.