ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday addressed the Joint Session of the Parliament at the beginning of the parliamentary year in the capital city.
“It is my singular privilege as your president to address for the eighth time the beginning of the parliamentary year,” stated the President in the Joint Session of the Parliament.
It should be noted that Zardari has already addressed the joint session of parliament seven times in history.
“As we embark on this new parliamentary year, I urge this house in promoting good governance and political economic stability.”
President Zardari emphasised that the people of country expect a lot from the parliament of Pakistan. “Our people have pinned their hope on parliament and we must rise to the occasion,” he said.
“It is my first duty to remind you we need to work harder to strengthen our democratic system, restore public confidence in the rule of law, and put Pakistan on the road to prosperity.”
As President addressed the Joint Session of the Parliament, the opposition leaders shouted slogans and made noise. Asif Ali Zardari continued: “I would like to appreciate the government’s efforts of putting the country on a positive path through economic growth. Our foreign exchange reserves have experienced a surge, there was a substantial increase in FDI and and the stock market also surged to a record high.”
The President further delved into the challenges Pakistan faces including over-population, climate change, and governance problems. “It is my considered opinion that this House should take its responsibilities seriously, and play its role in a real re-set of our governance and service delivery outcomes.”
He urged the members of the parliament to uphold their duties, responsibilities and empower the common citizens in today’s Joint Session of Parliament.
“I would urge all of you to empower our people, make decisions of national importance with consensus, encourage domestic and international investments for economic growth and job creation, foster social and economic justice, and ensure fairness and transparency in our system.”
