President Zardari expresses confidence in PM Nawaz Sharif to meet expectations

ISLAMABAD: In his historic sixth address to the joint session of Parliament, President Asif Ali Zardari congratulated Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on his election win and expressed confidence that he (Sharif) would meet expectations.

The president congratulated the newly elected members of parliament as well as the speaker while also praising the last parliament for passing historic amendments and laws. President Zardari also complimented the former prime ministers, chairman senate and former NA speaker for their leadership.

President Zardari praised the people of Pakistan for demonstrating courage and participating in the elections despite terror threats. “The people have spoken through their vote. Their voice has been heard and demonstrated by the smooth transition of power.”

“The transition marks the fulfillment of a long struggle for democracy in the country and collectively our people have written a new chapter in Pakistan’s history,” the president added.

President Zardari said there was no longer any room for dictators in today’s Pakistan.

The president stressed the need to find solutions for issues such as loadshedding, Balochistan, poverty, women and minority rights. He urged the government to step up efforts and build upon programs initiated by the last government.

The issue of militancy, extremism and terrorism pose the largest threat to our national security and the nation stands united to tackle this, the president told the National Assembly session. “We are willing to make peace with those who renounce violence but are also ready to take action against those who challenge the writ of the state.”

The president reinforced that no one would be allowed to violate Pakistan’s sovereignty and it should be protected at all costs.