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LONDON, Nov 16 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari arrived in the British capital on Sunday for an overnight stay on his way home from New York where he attended a two-day global peace and interfaith conference at the United Nations.
He was received on his arrival at the Heathrow Airport by Pakistan High Commissioner to UK Wajid Shamsul Hasan and senior officers of the Chancery. The President will depart for Islamabad on Monday.

UNITED NATIONS, Nov 13 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday met the US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice here along the margins of a high level meeting on the promotion of inter-religious and inter-cultural dialogue for peace.
The President discussed with the US Secretary of State the Pak-US bilateral relations, the situation along the border with Afghanistan, the economic crisis the country was facing and the forthcoming meeting of the Friends of Pakistan in United Arab Emirates later this month.

They also discussed the importance of dialogue among religions, promotion of tolerance and culture of peace to combat discrimination and hatred so as to strengthen world peace.

NEW YORK, Nov 11 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari arrived here Tuesday to represent Pakistan at a high- level session of UN General Assembly on "Culture of Peace", to promote a global dialogue about religions,cultures and common values. The meeting being held at the initiative of King Abdullah bin Abdul-Aziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia is a follow-up to an interfaith conference in Madrid organized in collaboration with King Juan Carlos of Spain in July.The Madrid conference brought together Jews,Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Buddhists and representatives of other religions and sparked hopes of a new relationship among religions.President Zardari was received at the airport by Pakistan's ambassador to United States Hussain Haqqani,Abdullah Hussain Haroon, Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations and other senior US and Pakistani officials.This is President Zardari's second visit to the United States of America. He was here earlier last month to attend the annual United Nations General Assembly session, an event that provided him an opportunity to interact with world leaders and to apprise them of the challenges Pakistan was facing.President Asif Zardari will meet other heads of states and governments on the margins of the summit.The world leaders who are expected to attend the dialogue are King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, US President George W. Bush, Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Lebanese President Michel Suleiman, President Gloria Arroyo of the Philippines,King Juan Carlos of Spain, King Abdullah of Jordan and Bahrain's King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa.Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi who arrived here Monday will accompany President Zardari in the UN session. The conference will focus on the importance of promoting interfaith dialogue in order to strengthen world peace and stability.The Foreign Office in a statement earlier said; "Pakistan fully supports the initiative of Saudi King Abdullah for interfaith and inter-cultural dialogue to promote peace understanding, and tolerance among human beings, as well as respect for all their diverse religious, cultural and linguistic identities."Leaders of 192 member countries had been sent letters of invitation by President of UN General Assembly Miguel d'Escoto Brockmann.The General Assembly is holding the meeting under agenda item 48, on the request of Saudi King, who drew the attention of General Assembly of the process that was initiated at the World Conference on Dialogue held in Madrid on July 16-18, 2008. The conference adopted 10 principles that included unity of humankind and the equality of human beings irrespective of their colours, ethnic backgrounds and cultures; purity of the nature of humans as they were created liking good and disliking evil, inclining to justice and avoiding injustice; diversity of cultures and civilizations.This dialogue will also serve as a useful preparatory step towards a high-level dialogue with civil society in 2010 on inter-religious and inter-cultural dialogue, understanding and culture of peace. A final communique is expected to be issued in which participants would express their support for efforts to boost interfaith and intercultural dialogue,as well as peaceful coexistence among nations.

ISLAMABAD, Nov 9 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari has expressed grief and anguish over the loss of a precious life and injuries to many people in a train derailment incident near Gujar Khan on Sunday. The President conveyed his heartfelt condolences and sincere sympathies to the victim’s family and wished early recovery of the injured.He further directed the hospital authorities to provide best health facilities to the injured.

MAKKAH, Nov 5 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari performed Umrah early Wednesday morning and prayed for Pakistan’s prosperity, solidarity and sought Allah Almighty’s blessings to enable the country meet the several challenges it was confronting. President Zardari who is here on a two-day visit earlier held talks with the Saudi leaders on wide ranging issues. Accompanied by his entourage the President arrived in Makkah late night.
He also offered the Fajr prayers and special nawafil to pray for peace and security of the country in the wake of serious threats the country was facing from extremist and terrorist elements.

The President also sought Allah’s blessing in helping the country come out of the financial crisis it was facing. A large number of Pakistanis who were at the Haram Sharif greeted and waved to the President.

The President will later pay his respects at the Roza-e-Rasool (Peace be upon Him) and offer Maghrib prayers.

ISLAMABAD, Nov 3 (APP): The Federal Cabinet was expanded on Monday with the induction of 22 more federal ministers and 18 Ministers of State. President Asif Ali Zardari administered oath to the new ministers and ministers of state in an impressive ceremony held here at Darbar Hall of the Aiwan-e-Sadr. Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani was also present. Speaker of the National Assembly, Deputy Chairman of the Senate, federal Ministers, parliamentarians, elite of the city and families of the new ministers also attended the ceremony.
After the addition of new federal ministers and ministers of state, the total strength of cabinet has reached 55 including 37 federal ministers and 18 ministers of state.

The Federal Ministers are:

Makhdoom Amin Fahim

Mian Manzoor Ahmad Wattoo

Syed Hamid Saeed Kazmi

Dr. Babar Awan

Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan

Rana Muhammad Farooq Saeed Khan

Samina Khalid Ghurki

Abdul Qayyum Khan Jatoi

Shahbaz Bhatti

Makhdoom Shahabuddin

Syed Mumtaz Alam Gillani

Mian Raza Rabbani

Pir Aftab Hussain Shah Jilani

Mir Ejaz Hussain Jhakrani

Mir Hazar Khan Bijrani

Shahid Hussain Bhutto

Dr. Arbab Alamgir Khan

Waqar Ahmed Khan

Mir Israrullah Zehri

Justice (Retd) Abdul Razaq Thaheem

Noorul Haq Qadri

Lal Muhammad Khan

Ministers of State are:

Mehreen Anwar Raja

Muhammad Afzal Sindhu

Ghulam Farid Kathia

Tasneem Ahmed Qureshi

Rafique Ahmed Jamali

Arbab Muhammad Zahir

Chaudhry Imtiaz Safdar Warraich

Dr Ayatullah Durrani

Masood Abbas

Abdul Raziq

Sardar Nabil Ahmed Gabol

Shagufta Jumani

Muhammad Tariq Anis

Hina Rabbani Khar

Sardar Saleem Haider Khan

Nawabzada Malik Amad Khan

Syed Sumsam Ali Shah Bukhari

Muhammad Jadam Mangrio

ISLAMABAD, Nov 3 (APP): The Federal Cabinet was expanded on Monday with the induction of 22 more federal ministers and 18 Ministers of State. President Asif Ali Zardari administered oath to the new ministers and ministers of state in an impressive ceremony held here at Darbar Hall of the Aiwan-e-Sadr. Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani was also present. Speaker of the National Assembly, Deputy Chairman of the Senate, federal Ministers, parliamentarians, elite of the city and families of the new ministers also attended the ceremony.
After the addition of new federal ministers and ministers of state, the total strength of cabinet has reached 55 including 37 federal ministers and 18 ministers of state.

The Federal Ministers are:

Makhdoom Amin Fahim

Mian Manzoor Ahmad Wattoo

Syed Hamid Saeed Kazmi

Dr. Babar Awan

Dr. Firdous Ashiq Awan

Rana Muhammad Farooq Saeed Khan

Samina Khalid Ghurki

Abdul Qayyum Khan Jatoi

Shahbaz Bhatti

Makhdoom Shahabuddin

Syed Mumtaz Alam Gillani

Mian Raza Rabbani

Pir Aftab Hussain Shah Jilani

Mir Ejaz Hussain Jhakrani

Mir Hazar Khan Bijrani

Shahid Hussain Bhutto

Dr. Arbab Alamgir Khan

Waqar Ahmed Khan

Mir Israrullah Zehri

Justice (Retd) Abdul Razaq Thaheem

Noorul Haq Qadri

Lal Muhammad Khan

Ministers of State are:

Mehreen Anwar Raja

Muhammad Afzal Sindhu

Ghulam Farid Kathia

Tasneem Ahmed Qureshi

Rafique Ahmed Jamali

Arbab Muhammad Zahir

Chaudhry Imtiaz Safdar Warraich

Dr Ayatullah Durrani

Masood Abbas

Abdul Raziq

Sardar Nabil Ahmed Gabol

Shagufta Jumani

Muhammad Tariq Anis

Hina Rabbani Khar

Sardar Saleem Haider Khan

Nawabzada Malik Amad Khan

Syed Sumsam Ali Shah Bukhari

Muhammad Jadam Mangrio

ISLAMABAD, Oct 30 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday said the government was deeply conscious of the problems of Balochistan and was determined to address them on war footing. He stated this while addressing a cross section of intellectuals, writers, professionals and activists from the Balochistan province here at the Aiwan-e-Sadr today.
The meeting was called under the auspices of the Special Committee for Reconciliation on Balochistan set up few months back by the Co-Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party. The meeting was also attended by Leader of the House in the Senate Mian Raza Rabbani, Federal Minister for States and Frontier Regions Najmudin Khan, Interior Advisor Rehman Malik, Secretary of the Committee Senator Dr. Babar Awan, Provincial PPP President Mir Lashkari Raisani and Ijaz Jhakrani. The President said that he was deeply grieved over the devastation caused by earthquake in the province and said that the government had geared up all agencies for rescue, relief and rehabilitation of the affected people.He said that it was a measure of the commitment of the present government to solve the Balochistan problems in right earnest that Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto visited the province on December 15 last year, two weeks before her assassination, and made far reaching announcements about reconciliation with the people of Balochistan. After that the Pakistan Peoples Party also formally apologized to the people of Balochistan over the excesses committed against them in the past, he said. President Zardari said the Prime Minister had also accorded priority to Balochistan issues in his address to the Parliament. The President said that the government was quite aware of the poor state of education, health and infrastructure in the province.Saying that poor education was one of the major causes of socio-economic under development, the President declared that the government will set up special Task Force for making recommendations for the educational uplift of the province.The President also announced the setting up of two new universities and a Medical College for Women in the province. The President made this announcement in response to a demand for setting up one new university each in the Baloch and Pushtoon areas. He said that he was conscious of the acute sense of deprivation among the people of Balochistan and that was why he had set up special Committee on Balochistan and decided to meet representatives of the province to enable them vent their grievances and offer doable suggestions. The President said that the people of Balochistan had first right over their natural resources. The government will develop those resources in a manner that made the local people also stakeholders and partners in the development projects, he added. The President said that the government had decided to adopt the public private partnership model in Gawadar so that the people of area were the direct beneficiaries of Gawadar development. A number of Baloch intellectuals also spoke and highlighted problems faced by the people ranging from unemployment, education, poverty and poor infrastructure. Those who spoke on the occasion included Amanullah Gichki, Dr. Shanaz Baloch, Ms. Nargis Baloch, Dr. Badal Khan, Hakim Baloch, Siddique Baloch, Bhadur Khan Rodini and Mrs. Fazila Iliyanu.

ISLAMABAD, Oct 29 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari has expressed his deep sorrow and grief over the heavy loss of life due to the earthquake near Quetta and directed the federal and provincial governments to mobilise their resources to reach out to the affected people without delay. The President also directed immediate medical aid and rescue measures for the affected people.

ISLAMABAD, Oct 26 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari Sunday strongly condemned the attack on a check post in Mohmand Agency and described it a cowardly act. The President directed the law enforcement agencies to apprehend the culprits involved in the heinous act and bring them to justice. President Zardari announced compensation amount of Rs. 100,000 for the dead and Rs. 50,000 for the injured.

He directed the concerned authorities to ensure proper treatment of the injured.

In his condolence message to the bereaved families, he prayed to Allah Almighty to rest the departed souls in eternal peace and grant courage to the bereaved families to bear the irreparable loss with fortitude.

ISLAMABAD, Oct 23 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday said water shortage had seriously affected agriculture and there was a need to take quantum jump in devising schemes for optimal utilization of irrigation water. In his remarks made during a presentation on drip irrigation here, the President said water which was an essential resource for producing food and electricity, was also a fast depleting resource.

He said experts predict that future wars would be fought over water resources rather than on fuel, oil or jingoistic considerations.

The President advised the Food and Agriculture Ministry to have a detailed discussion on drip irrigation with the private sector experts to examine feasibility of micro-irrigation, and explore ways to securing long term easy loans for financing a durable scheme.

Nazar Muhammad Gondal, Federal Minister for Food, Agriculture and Livestock, Zia ur Rehman, Secretary Food and Agriculture Ch. Abdul Karim, DG Water Management and Jameel Ahmed Mughal also attended the meeting.

ISLAMABAD, Oct 21 (APP): Pakistan Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Admiral (Retd) Shahid Karimullah Monday said that President Asif Ali Zardari would visit Saudi Arabia in the first week of November. Talking to Geo News, he said Saudi King Abdullah Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud has invited the President to visit the kingdom.The tentative dates of the visit are November 04 and 05.
However dates of the visit would be confirmed within a few days. He said Saudi businessmen are taking great interest to invest in Pakistan’s agriculture sector.A delegation of Saudi traders would visit Pakistan in March 2009 to explore business opportunities in Pakistan.

Currently a 135 Pakistani businessmen are visiting Saudia to participate in investor’s conference organised by Saudi ministry of Finance, he added.

BEIJING, Oct 16 (APP): Pakistan and China Thursday agreed to propel level of economic cooperation in diverse sectors on fast trajectory as an important plank of comprehensive strategic partnership. The two countries also agreed to make continuous efforts to strengthen good-neighbourly relations and friendship, develop mutually beneficial cooperation and deepen strategic partnership of cooperation which serves the fundamental interests of the two peoples and contributes to peace and development in the region, said a Joint Statement issued on the first state visit of Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari to China. Both sides opposed to all forms of terrorism, extremism and separatism, resolved to cooperation with each other to fight the above-mentioned three forces, said the Statement adding, China conveyed its complete support to Pakistan’s commitment and efforts to fight terrorism and appreciated the sacrifices made by the government and people of Pakistan in this regard. The two sides agreed that economic cooperation is an important part of strategic partnership and both sides enjoy great economic complementarity and should fully tap the potential and comprehensively deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in the economic field.The two countries agreed to fast track the implementation of the Five Year Development Programme on Economic Cooperation and make full use of the Free Trade Agreement in Goods and Investment and Pakistan-China Joint Investment Company. In this regard, the statement said, they agreed to convene a meeting of Pakistan-China Economic Cooperation Group under the Five Development Programme on Economic Cooperation at an early date. Both sides agreed that the Treaty of Friendship, Cooperation and Good-neighbourly Relations between the People’s Republic of China and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan (Treaty) signed in April 2005 is of great historic and immediate significance, laying a solid legal foundation for the long-term stable and health growth of China-Pakistan relations. Both sides decided to abide by the policies and principles enshrined in the Treaty, earnestly implement the bilateral legal documents signed since the two countries established diplomatic ties and further intensify cooperation in the areas of economy, defense, science and technology, people to people contact, thus constantly advancing the China-Pakistan strategic partnership of cooperation. China stressed that Pakistan is China’s good neighbour, close friend, dear brother and trusted partner. China will continue to view China-Pakistan relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, and make joint efforts with Pakistan to lift China-Pakistan Strategic partnership of cooperation to a new height, the statement said. Pakistan stressed that Pak-China relationship is the cornerstone of its foreign policy, and friendship with China represents the common desire of all Pakistani people, the statement observed continuing, Pakistan appreciated the strong support and assistance provided by the government and people of China to Pakistan in its economic development. Pakistan remained committed to continuing its policy of friendship towards China and making unremitting efforts to promote the healthy and steady growth of relations between the two countries. According to the statement, President Asif Ali Zardari extended invitation to President Hu Jintao to visit Pakistan once again at his convenience and President Hu Jintao thanked President Zardari for his kind invitation. The statement said Pakistan unequivocally upheld the one-China policy and considers Taiwan as an inseparable part of the Peoples Republic of China and supports all efforts made by the Chinese government to realize national reunification. China, the statement added, appreciated Pakistan’s long term and staunch support to China on issues concerning China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, reaffirmed its support for Pakistan’s efforts to uphold its sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity and appreciated Pakistan’s important role in promoting regional peace, stability and security and strengthening international counter-terrorism efforts. The two sides agreed to enhance cooperation to further develop and boost Pakistan’s Mineral and Energy sector as well as broaden financial and banking sector cooperation. They agreed to further enhance “connectivity” by developing new communication and links including fiber optic links and also agreed to explore the concept of Integrated Border Management, overland trade and development of trans-border economic zones. Both sides agreed to maintain communication and coordination on major international and regional issues to safeguard their common interests besides continuing to cooperate closely on issues such as the reform of the United Nations, climate change and energy and food security to promote world peace and development. President Asif Zardari offered congratulation to the Chinese government and people on the successful hosting of the Beijing Olympic Games and the successful completion of Shenzhou VII’s mission. According to the Statement, President HU Jintao congratulated President Zardari on his election as the President of Pakistan and thanked Pakistan for its valuable assistance in the wake of the devastating earthquake in Wenchuan, China. He also appreciated Pakistan’s support to ensure the success of the Beijing Olympics and Paralympics Games. Pakistan applauded the outstanding achievements China has made in the 30 years of reform and opening-up and believes that China’s development will contribute to world peace and prosperity. On the invitation of President Hu Jintao, President Asif Ali Zardari paid four-day long state visit and during the stay held talks with his Chinese counterpart. Mr Wu Bangguo, Chairman Standing Committee of the National Peoples Congress, Mr Wen Jiabao, Premier of the State Council, and Mr Jia Qinglin, Chairman of the Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference met the visiting president. Talks between the two Presidents and President Zardari’s meetings with other Chinese state leaders were characterized by traditional warmth, friendship and mutual understanding. The two leaders reached broad agreement on strengthening China-Pakistan strategic partnership of cooperation and on international and regional issues of mutual interest under the new circumstances. The president of Pakistan also held wide ranging discussions with the leaders of the Chinese corporations and financial institutions. The leaders of the two countries reviewed with satisfaction the growth of China-Pakistan relations over the past 57 years since the two countries established diplomatic ties. They agreed the friendship between China and Pakistan has withstood the test of time and practice, notwithstanding changes in the international, regional and domestic environments. The all-weather friendship and all-round cooperation have become the distinctive features of China-Pakistan relations. Both sides inked twelve agreements/MOUs during the visit in the fields of economic and technical cooperation, free trade, minerals, petroleum and natural resources, environmental protection, radio and television, space technology, agriculture sector, properties exchange between foreign ministries of the two countries, museum of natural history, cricket field and project of X-Ray container/vehicle inspection system.

BEIJING, Oct 16 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao Thursday held formal talks here focussing on further cementing strategic partnership between the two countries. The Chinese Premier warmly received President Zardari at his residence where the two leaders shook hands and exchanged broad grins reflecting warmth and strength of friendly bond between the times tested friends. The President on the occasion, introduced to the Chinese Premier members of his entourage. The Pakistani delegation included Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Defence Minister Ahmed Mukhtar, Minister for Environment Hamidullah Jan Afridi, Advisor on Interior Rehman Malik, Media Advisor to President Farhatullah Babar, Advisor on Finance Shaukat Tareen, Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir, Secretary General PPP Jahangir Badar and Pakistan’s Ambassador to China Masood Khan. The Chinese side included Premier Wen Foreign Minister, Assistant Minister, Vice Minister MOFCOM, Deputy director General Asia Department protocol and Information Department. Welcoming President Zardari, Premier Wen said that it was a great pleasure for him to welcome him in China. Premier Wen was of high praise for President Zardari for visiting China as his first destination for state visit which demonstrates that Pakistan attaches immense importance to the bilateral relations between the two countries. He said that the bilateral relations and cooperation will witness further improvement and depth with the passage of time. Reciprocating the sentiments and feeling of the Chinese Premier, President Zardari expressed his deep pleasure to be in China, the most trusted and reliable friend of Pakistan. He mentioned the special relations of Bhutto family including Shaheed Mohtarama Benazir Bhutto with Chinese leadership. The leadership played a pioneering role in promoting and deepening the bilateral ties that turned into strategic partnership over the period of time. During the meeting matters pertaining to expanding bilateral relations, and cooperation in the areas of common interest received special focus.

BEIJING, Oct 16 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari Thursday met Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference Jia Qinglin and exchanged views to further strengthen the multi-faceted, time-tested and strategic ties between Pakistan and China. During the meeting at the State Guest House, President Zardari said Pakistan and China enjoy deep-rooted, strong relations spanning three generations. He vowed to take these forward to the next generation for the mutual benefit of the two countries. Zardari said he was in China to take forward the legacy of great leaders Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Premier Zhou Enlai who laid the foundation of Pak-China friendship. President Zardari said Pakistan takes pride in success of China and has strong desire to promote and strengthen the existing bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries in various fields. He thanked the Chairman CPPCC for inviting him and said this provided an opportunity of exchanging views on various matters of bilateral cooperation. Chairman CPPCC Jia Qinglin congratulated President Zardari on his election as Pakistan’s democratic head of state and said CPPCC welcomes him on the state visit. He said Zardari’s choice of China as the destination for his first state visit reflected the importance of Pakistan-China relations. Jia Qinglin appreciated the in-depth discussions between President Zardari and President Hu and hoped that this visit will go a long way in further strengthening the historic Pak-China bonds which have withstood the test of time. Earlier Chairman Jia Qinglin warmly received President Zardari on his arrival at the State Guest House. He also hosted a reception in his honour. The President’s delegation included Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Defence Minister Ahmed Mukhtar, Minister for Environment Hamidullah Jan Afridi, Advisor on Interior Rehman Malik, Advisor on Finance and Economic Affairs Shaukat Tareen, Foreign Secretary Salman Bashir, Secretary General PPP Jahangir Badar and Pakistan’s Ambassador to China Masood Khan.

BEIJING, Oct 16 (APP) - Chinese print and electronic media gave wide publicity and projection to President Asif Ali Zardari’s first 4-day state visit to China highlighting strength and warmth of time-tested bilateral partnership. The English newspaper of mass circulation “China Daily” in its Today’s edition carried front page story with banner headline “Visit cements all-weather partnership” stating that interactions of President Hu Jintao and his visiting Pakistani counterpart Asif Ali Zardari lent impetus to the historic friendship between the two countries. “The only way I could do justice to the memory of my late wife and my late father-in-law was to make sure that my first state visit as President was to China “, the paper quoted President Zardari as saying in its 5-column report published on summit- meeting held at the Great Hall of the People. “Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto made prominent contributions to the initiation and development of China-Pakistan relationship, which the Chinese people will never forget”, added President Zardari. Eleven pacts were inked after talks between the two presidents, the Paper stated adding among them, China Great Wall Industry Corporation (CGWIC), a space industry service provider, was contracted to launch a telecommunications satellite for Pakistan in the first half of 2011 from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre. With regard to the landmark welcome ceremony, held for Pakistani President, the Paper said, Mr Zardari received a red-carpet welcome and a 21-gun salute at the Great Hall of the People before his one-on-one meeting. Quoting an interview of President Zardari to Xinhua news agency before embarking on his first state visit to China, the Paper said that Pakistani President expected to prioritize economic ties with China during his visit. The newspaper also published President Zardari’s speech at a business forum he addressed on Thursday, stating that an economic zone would be set up to facilitate Chinese investors in Pakistan. Bilateral trade was more than $7 billion last year; and the two sides have set a target of $ 15 billion annually by 2011, the paper said while referring to President address at the Business Forum. The paper also carried a 5-column pictorial display in which President Hu was escorting his Pakistani counterpart for the inspection of guard of honour. The most influential Chinese language newspaper “Peoples Daily” in its front page news captioned “President Hu Jintao meets Pakistani President Zardari-the two head of states reach consensus on further cementing the all weather Pak-China Friendship enhance all round cooperation, bring China-Pakistan strategic cooperative partnership to new height.” The CPC organ newspaper also mentioned in its 3-column news report on the significance of President Zardari’s first state visit to China . The paper also mentioned Chinese President as saying that after establishment of diplomatic ties 57-years ago, the Sino-Pak relations stood firmly and developed steadily despite many ups and downs on regional and international scenario. It also published 3-column photo of President Zardari and President Hu inspecting the Guard of Honour held at the Great Hall of the People yesterday. A large number of other Chinese language newspapers also gave conspicuous display to President Zardari’s visit to China. The Chinese electronic media including CCTV, BTV and other networks equally accorded prominence to President Asif Ali Zardari’s visit to China . They all aired with distinction President Zardari’s first official visit to China in its main bulletins. Meanwhile, the CCTV and Peoples Daily also interviewed President Asif Ali Zardari today.

BEIJING, Oct 16 (APP): Foreign Minister of China Yang Jiechi called on President Asif Ali Zardari and presented him a photo album of the visits of former Pakistan Prime Ministers Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed to China. The Chinese Foreign Minister also congratulated President Zardari on his successful and first state visit to Beijing and very good talks with the Chinese leadership President Hu Jintao, Premier Wen Jiabao, the Chairman NPC and the Chairman CPPCC. He said the visit of President Zardari and the talks between the leadership of two countries will help boost the time-tested and historic Pak-China relations. President Zardari thanked the Chinese Foreign Minister for presenting him the album of photographs, which depicts the memories of great Pakistani and Chinese leaders as well as the Bhutto family.

BEIJING, Oct 16 (APP): Unveiling his Economic Vision, President Asif Ali Zardari has invited giant Chinese companies to avail the investment potential and trade opportunities in Pakistan, owing to its unique geo strategic and economic location in the region. During his expansive and threadbare back to back interaction with the Chinese corporate leaders and Chief Executives, the President explained the cardinal features of his Economic Vision and approach towards jacking up the volume and level of economic coopration between the time tested and trusted partners -Pakistan and China, said Pakistan Ambassador to China Masood Khan while talking to Pakistani media here on Thursday. This economic and strategic partnership of Pakistan and China will also dish-out economic dividends for the prosperity and development of entire region. Responding to a question, Pakistan envoy said that the first state visit of President Zardari was potentially rich in symbolism and substance as 21-gun salute was presented to any Pakistani head of the state after over a decade. During the discussions Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Mao Ze Dong were characterized as architect of Pak-China relations, he said adding the farsighted and sagacious vision of the leaders laid the foundation of robust and vibrant relations between the two countries. Masood Khan said that China had very close ties with Pakistan Peoples Party and PPP played an important role in cementing ties between the two countries. The PPP Chairperson Bilawal Zardari Bhutto attended the opening ceremony of Beijing Olympics where he also met with Chinese party leadership which reflects that friendship and warm relations were being transferred and handed over to the young generation of the two sides. During the President’s visit Pakistan Peoples Party and National Peoples Congress reached an MoU to promote political understanding and cooperation between the two ruling parties. The “Economic Vision” of President Zardari was not only appreciated by the Chinese leaders but also by the media of the host country, said Ambassador Masood Khan. Explaining further, the Ambassador said that the Economic Vision focused on extended neighbourhood where mutual cooperation in economic sectors would help achieve the desired goals. The Vision, he further said envisaged economic linkages, trans-border as well as trans-regional trade connections.This is the vision that President Zardari shared with the top leadership as well as corporate leaders. “There was lot of receptivity to this idea, as all the Chinese cooperate leaders were attentive to the potential of this vision and its dynamic results”, he said. He said that several leaders of corporate sector also discussed details of their enterprises and future plans for gaining more exposure to Pakistani markets. He said that President Zardari also met with top Chinese bankers and invited them to open their branches in Pakistan. He said that keen interest was shown by Chinese side in the telecommunication sector, adding this sector committed one billion dollars investment in Pakistan. Pakistan and China also discussed the cooperation for overcoming energy crisis. President Zardari also exchanged views in this connection with various Chinese cooperation with power generation particularly in thermal, hydel and the requirement of Pakistan were also discussed. The Chinese power sector corporations working in this field on the occasion expressed keen interest on the part of Chinese side to invest in Pakistan. Pakistan and China have always cooperated with each other in the field of nuclear energy, because we believe that the nuclear energy should be used for peaceful purposes. He said that we had cooperation in this regard which will continue in future. The Ambassador said that President Zardari also met with several Chief Executives of corporations, specializing in this area and some potential projects also came under discussion. Regarding the question about cooperation on fighting terrorism, the Ambassador said that the menace is a common threat which is not only directed against Pakistan but also to the international community. He said that Pakistan and China had been cooperating to counter terrorism in all its forms and manifestation. The Ambassador said that during the present visit of President Zardari this issue figured prominently in the discussion and both the leadership once again underlined their resolve to make coordinated efforts to curb this menace. The Chinese leadership including President Hu Jintao, Premier Wen Jiabao and other leaders had recognized the singular contribution Pakistan was making as frontline state in war against terrorism. They also supported Pakistan’s stand and position to uphold its independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity. The Chinese leadership, the Ambassador further said also thanked Pakistan for what it had done in the field of fighting terrorism. This subject came under discussion in depth, Ambassador Masood said, adding that a joint strategy was also discussed to fight the menace. Regarding economic cooperation, he said a mechanism between Pakistan and China is already in place that included 5-year Plan under which 61-projects have been identified, out of these 27 have already been launched, while 26 are soon to be launched. He said that on completion of this 5-year plan by 2011, the next cycle of this plan would be initiated. Both sides are committed to lift the present volume of trade from dollar 7 billion to dollar 15 billion within five years. This plan, he said covers all areas including environment, science and technology, petroleum, different power generation projects. Besides, he said that there is an Economic Cooperation group of which it will be meeting soon in Pakistan . He also pointed out that there is Joint Economic Commission that meets at ministerial level. The Ambassador said that the Chinese Minister for trade will soon visit Pakistan and review the projects that are near completion.

BEIJING, Oct 16 (APP): A number of heads and chief executives of key Chinese corporate sector companies called on President Asif Ali Zardari here at the State Guest House on Thursday and exchanged views with focus on augmenting economic cooperation between the two countries. The prominent Chinese entrepreneurs assured President Zardari that they were of the firm view that investment climate was not only hospitable but also quite secure for their further investment in the country. They told the President that they intend to fully avail of the investment opportunities Pakistan was offering for setting up industries in important sectors of the economy. Extolling the economic vision of the present democratic government, they said that the steps it was taking were aimed at putting the economy on fast and sustainable track of economic growth. They observed that there were bright prospects and substantial potential for enhancing their existing level of cooperation and collaboration in different fields. Those who met President Zardari included Chief of China National Petroleum Corporation, China Mobile, Huawei Technology and ZTE Electronics. The delegation led by China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) Jian Jiemin assured the President on behalf of CNPC to continue extending cooperation in trade and seismic activities. Talking to media, the Director General of CNPC Zhang Xin said that his company was already carrying out large scale construction in Pakistan.“Right now CNPC has over 300 employees working in Pakistan and all of them are very safe,” he said. He thanked the present government for friendly economic policies. Zhang said that during the meeting with President Zardari the two sides discussed a number of areas for further cementing cooperation in various economic sectors including oil exploration, trade and investment in refining and services sector. Chairman China Mobile Wang Jianzhou said that this year his company has invested $ 200 million and plans to further expand its project by further investing $ 600 million. Wang said that for acquisition of PakTel, China Mobile had paid $ 400 million and also made further investment of $ 400 million for improvement of its network. “We will continue to expand further our service with very good quality,” he said. The chairperson of Huawei Technology Ms. Sun Ya Fang told said after meeting with President Zardari that over 1600 local employees were working in her organization in Pakistan. Terming the meeting with President Zardari “very good,” she said that both sides talked on how to make further expansion in telecom sector. She said that Huawei Pakistan is the number one telecom solution provider and is the only vendor which serves all the mainstream telecom operators of the country such as PTCL, Ufone, Mobilink, Telenor, Warid and Zong etc. Chairperson Huawei donated one million Dollars for establishment of E G overnment project in Pakistan. The Chairman of ZTE Telecom Zhang Taifeng said that his company has made investment of $ 1.5 billion in Pakistan and also acquired a piece of land to further expand its business in telecommunication. The equipment manufactured by ZTE consumes 40 per cent less electricity as compared to other companies. President Zardari praised the services of Huawei Group and expressed the hope it will come up with further investment in the country.

ISLAMABAD, Oct 13 (APP): The British Permanent Under Secretary for Foreign Affairs Sir Peter Ricketts and Permanent Under Secretary Home Office Sir David Normington called on President Asif Ali Zardari here on Monday. During the meeting, bilateral relations between Pakistan and United Kingdom were briefly reviewed. It was underlined that the one million people of Pakistani origin in Britain constituted a special bond between the two countries. The President briefed the visiting delegation on government’s internal priorities, the state of the economy and the fight against extremism and terrorism. The President highlighted Pakistan’s multi-dimensional approach in dealing with the scourge of terrorism, which had been acknowledged all around. In this regard the international community, particularly Pakistan’s friends, needed to show greater understanding and support for its position. The British Permanent Under Secretary appreciated Pakistan’s commendable role in this regard and expressed the UK Government’s firm commitment to enable Pakistan overcome this challenge. The President also underlined the government’s determination to overcome the present economic challenges which had come about as a result of the international economic situation. The British side expressed understanding of Pakistan’s situation and committed to extend support as part of the Friends of Pakistan Group.

BEIJING, Oct 13 (APP): Foreign Ministers of Pakistan and China held a meeting on Monday, setting the tone for the upcoming talks between President Asif Ali Zardari and his Chinese counterpart Hu Jintao at the Great Hall of People here. After his rendezvous with his Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs here, Foreign Minister Makhdoom Shah Mehmood Qureshi told the Pakistani media that the summit level talks during the state visit of President Zardari will be of immense benefit for both sides, particularly Pakistan. President Zardari is reaching here Tuesday on his first bilateral official visit to any country after assuming the office, on the invitation of President Hu Jintao. He will exchange views with the Chinese leadership on important issues of bilateral interest as well as the regional and international issues of common concern. Qureshi said that matters of defence, strategic and economic importance came under discussion during the talks which lasted for over an hour. Foreign Secretary Mr Salman Bashir, Pakistan’s ambassador Mr Masood Khan and Chinese ambassador in Pakistan Luo Zhaohui were also present on the occasion. He said his interaction with the Chinese Foreign Minister before the arrival of President Zardari was meant to work out framework and modalities for the summit talks. Earlier Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said Beijing has been attaching great importance to the visit of President Asif Ali Zardari. He said President Zardari chose China as his destination for his first state visit and China appreciates this gesture. The visit will further strengthen Pak-China partnership and cooperation as the President himself and the government of Pakistan showed interest in this regard, he added. The Chinese Foreign Minister said he had an opportunity today to exchange views with his Pakistani counterpart on how to beef up bilateral ties and further develop them to diversify cooperation. Reciprocating the sentiments and warm feelings of his Chinese counterpart, the Pakistani Foreign Minister said President Zardari accorded immense importance to his first State visit to the time-tested and trust-bound friend China. Shah Mehmood Qureshi was also given a briefing about the Chinese Foreign Ministry and the architecture of its building. He was also introduced to Assistant Foreign Minister for Asia Affairs Mr Hu Zhengyue.

BEIJING, Oct 13 (APP) President Asif Ali Zardari will arrive here Tuesday on his first state visit abroad, at the invitation of Chinese President Hu Jintao. The President’s four-day visit will focus on further strengthening the relationship of trust and friendship between the two countries and enhancing mutually beneficial cooperation in the areas of common interest, diplomatic sources said. The Chinese government has made special arrangements to accord a warm welcomed to the President of Pakistan.Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in May 1951, China and Pakistan have forged an exceptionally close friendship. In these 57 years, the all-weather nature of this friendship is one constant in Pakistan’s foreign policy unaffected by the sweeping changes that have changed the regional and global picture. The People’s Party Government particularly places high priority on China-Pakistan relations and is proud that Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, the founder Chairman of the party, was the architect of this all-weather friendship. The Sino-Pakistan friendship also remained a key foreign policy priority for Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. President Hu Jintao will formally welcome President Zardari and hold talks with him on October 15. He will also host a state banquet for the President of Pakistan. The two leaders will discuss the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and also exchange views on the important regional and international issues. President Zardari will brief the President of China on the priorities and policies of the new government in the areas of counter-terrorism, economy and foreign policy. The two leaders will also discuss ways to add greater economic content to the Pakistan-China comprehensive strategic partnership. During the visit, the Pakistan President will also meet Chairman NPC Standing Committee Wu Bangguo, Premier of the State Council Wen Jiabao and Chairman CPPCC Jia Qinglin. On October 16, the President will host a luncheon for China’s corporate leaders from top hundred corporations with whom the President will discuss ways to further enhance trade and economic relations between the two countries.
President Zardari will also meet representatives of the Chinese print and electronic media.
A number of important agreements are likely to be signed in the presence of the two leaders in diverse areas like economic cooperation, enhancement of trade, collaboration in science and technology and cultural interaction.

ISLAMABAD, Oct 8 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari has said that the government is taking all necessary steps to fight against the militants and extremists in the tribal areas of NWFP. He made these remarks while talking to Maulana Fazal ur Rehman, Chairman Special Committee of the National Assembly on Kashmir, who called on him here Wednesday.

ISLAMABAD, Oct 8 (APP): Punjab Chief Minister Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif called on President Asif Ali Zardari here Wednesday. The Chief Minister briefed the President about various matters including existing law and order situation. The President appreciated the measures being taken for improving law and order situation and said that every possible effort should be made to ensure peace and stability in the province.

ISLAMABAD, Oct 8 (APP): Armed forces are fully capable to meet any eventuality and safeguard the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, said President Asif Ali Zardari while talking to Federal Minister for Defence Chaudhry Ahmad Mukhtar who called on him here on Wednesday. The President expressed the resolve that national frontiers of the country would be defended at all costs and the whole nation would be standing united behind the armed forces of the country. The Minister said the government is taking all necessary measures to strengthen and enhance the capability of its armed forces so as to effectively cope with growing challenges and ensure defence of national frontiers.

ISLAMABAD, Oct 8 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday said the scourge of terrorism and extremism was hurting the country’s economic development as well as its institutions. The President was talking to Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani and Chief of the Army Staff, General Ashfaq Pervaiz Kayani, who called on him here at the Aiwan-e-Sadr on Wednesday. President Zardari said the government was following a multi-pronged and effective strategy to root out the menace of terrorism and extremism from the country. The Chief of Army Staff briefed the President and the Prime Minister about the prevailing law and order situation in FATA and tribal areas as well as the measures being taken to restore peace in these areas.The President and the Prime Minister expressed their satisfaction over the measures being taken in these areas.

ISLAMABAD, Oct 5 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani called on President Asif Ali Zardari here at the Aiwan-e-Sadr on Sunday. The two leaders in their exclusive meeting exchanged views on the matters of national importance including the prevailing security situation as well as the challenges facing the country. It may be mentioned here that a joint session of the parliament has been called on October 8 in which the members of parliament will be given an in-camera briefing on the law and order situation in the country.

ISLAMABAD, Sep 29 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari felicitating his Chinese counterpart Hu Jintao on the successful launch of space aircraft ‘Shenzhou-7’ on September 26 has stated that the first space-walk by Chinese astronauts will mark a global watershed. “On my behalf and on behalf of the people of Pakistan, I offer warm and sincere felicitations to Your Excellency, as well as the government and the people of China, on the successful launch of the Shenzhou-7 space craft on September 26. The first space-walk by the Chinese astronauts will mark a global watershed”, Zardari said in a message addressed to Chinese President Hu Jintao.The President said Shenzhou-7 mission is another historic milestone in the Chinese nation’s remarkable achievements in the field of space technology.“It is an outstanding tribute to the capability, commitment, and hard work of Chinese scientists, taikonauts and technicians. “As friends, partners and neighbours of China, we in Pakistan rejoice with our Chinese nation and wish you every success in the further development of China’s space programme”, he said.“Please accept, Excellency, assurances of my highest esteem and consideration”, President Zardari said.

ISLAMABAD, Sep 27 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari has stressed for using tourism as a potential economic engine, and said it is important to maintain the standards of tourist industry, and save tourists and inhabitants from facing climatic changes. “These climatic changes are a great challenge in the path of achieving international development targets,” the President said in message on ‘World Tourism Day’ being observed throughout the world on (Sep 27) with the theme of supporting measures adopted to prevent sudden climatic changes.The President said Pakistan is contributing in the international efforts to counter the unusual climatic changes besides taking steps for promotion of tourism. “The rich culture and the civilizations of Harappa, Moenjodaro and Gandhara which existed here, are a great source of attraction for the tourists. The Northern Areas are a tourist paradise, visited by thousands of tourists every year,” he said.President Zardari said tourism in a way cannot only highlight the beautiful planet Earth, but also generate much-needed revenue which in turn can be used to manage the threat of global climate change.He said being realized rather belatedly, climate change has the potential of radically changing people’s lifestyle.The President said on the occasion of World Tourism Day, Pakistan, as member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), welcomes tourists from all over the world for visit.He believed that the tourists would derive pleasure when visit Pakistan, as it would offer them a sightseeing of scenic beauties and cultural heritage of the world’s oldest civilization.

NEW YORK, Sep 27 (APP): Former President Bill Clinton met with President Asif Ali Zardari here Friday afternoon and discussed US-Pakistan relations and exchanged views on meeting challenges fin the South Asian region. Senator Hillary Clinton later also joined the meeting during which the new Pakistani president briefed the US leaders about the democratic government’s endeavors to overcome economic and security problems facing the country.Bill Clinton spoke of shared interest in fostering close relations between the two countries and expressed support for democracy and encouragement for the government’s efforts to pull the country out of economic troubles. The leaders also discussed peace and security efforts in the region. President Zardari briefed them about his vision for socio-economic uplift of the people through a comprehensive strategy aimed at generating economic opportunities for them. He also stressed the importance of international cooperation in dealing with security and economic challenges.

UNITED NATIONS, Sept 25 (APP): President Asif Ali Zardari Thursday made a stirring call for international community’s moral, political and economic support to help fight terrorism, saying the security of the world lay in Pakistan ‘s stability. “The terrorists strike all nations and continents and there was a need to draw the line on their rampage,” he said in his maiden speech to the U.N. General Assembly at its gold-and-blue hall.“We must draw that line in Pakistan,” he told the 192-member Assembly, saying he was here in place of his martyred wife, Benazir Bhutto, to muster support for her nation which is a victim of terrorism. “In our stability lies the world’s security,” he added.Pakistan, he said, was fighting for the peace of the world as also for the hearts and minds of the affected people. “It can’t be won only by guns and bombs. The fight must be multifaceted,” he added. In his speech focusing the scourge of terrorism, President Zardari said the challenges facing Pakistan can only be addressed by a democratic government and added the country was in the process of reaching a national consensus necessary to confront and defeat the terrorists. “Only a democratic government can win this war,” the President said and questioned the world leaders whether they will stand with Pakistan, just it stood for the entire civilized world on the front-lines of this epic struggle of the new millennium. He said globalization was not merely economic, but was also political. The terrorists strike all nations and continents and there was a need to draw the line on their rampage. “And we must draw that line in Pakistan,” Zardari said. He, however, warned that unilateral actions of great powers can inflame the passions of the allies. “Violating our nation’s sovereignty is not helpful in eliminating the terrorist menace. Indeed, this could have the opposite effect,” he said. President Zardari said it was time for the world to take notice. “We are not the cause of the problem of terrorism, we are its victims,” he said. “We are an aggrieved nation, not one that has caused grief,” he said and pointed that Pakistan has fought this battle largely alone. “We have shared our air bases, our air space, our intelligence and our armed forces in a coordinated effort to contain terrorism.” President Zardari said Pakistan has alone lost more soldiers than all the 37 countries that have forces in Afghanistan put together. He traced back the roots of terrorism to the war involving superpowers in Afghanistan during the 1990s. The President said the threat of terrorism cannot be fought by military means alone and requires political will, popular mobilization and a socio-economic strategy that wins the hearts and minds of nations afflicted by it. Zardai said “It was time for the developed world to step up to the plate to help us, and in turn help itself.” He said the battleground must be economic and social as well as military. “We will win when people are mobilized against the fanatics. To mobilize them we have to give them hope and opportunity for their future. They need jobs. Their children need education. They must be fed. They must have energy. “We must give people a stake in their own government, and we must demonstrate to them that democracy does perform, that democratic governance can improve their everyday life.The President said an economically viable Pakistan will be a stable Pakistan as it will suck the oxygen from the terrorists’ agenda. Economic justice and political democracy are the worst nightmares of the terrorists, he added. “We must all fight this epic battle together as allies and partners. But just as we will not let Pakistan’s territory to be used by terrorists for attacks against our people and our neighbours, we cannot allow our territory and our sovereignty to be violated by our friends,” he added. President Zardari said the government will work patiently to persuade leaders in FATA and the Pakhtunkhwa Province to accept the writ of government and turn their back on terrorists. “The terrorists can blow up our girls’ schools but we will rebuild them, brick by brick, inch by inch. We are in this battle to win. And we know how we have to do it.” He said Pakistan will work together with Afghanistan, and the NATO forces stationed there, to ensure security of the common border. He also vowed to continue the composite dialogue with India so that their outstanding disputes were resolved. “Whether it is the core issue of Jammu and Kashmir , or cooperation on water resources, India and Pakistan must accommodate each other’s concerns and interests; we must respect and work with each other to peacefully resolve our problems and build South Asia into a common market of trade and technology,” he said. President Zardari was of the view that better relations between Pakistan, Afghanistan and India would help create the regional environment that was more conducive to reducing militancy in the region. “But let be clear, to those in this hall, and to the terrorists lurking in their caves plotting their next assault on humanity. If necessary we will confront evil with force - our police, our army and our air force. We will turn the power of the state against the stateless terrorists. We will turn the power of justice against the chaos of anarchists. We will turn the power of right against the darkness of evil.” President Zardari said he did not choose this life, rather it has chosen him through an extraordinary combination of circumstances. He said it has not been an easy road and recalled his nine years in prison, in solitary confinement, as a hostage to his wife’s struggle for democracy and to party’s future. “I was unjustly imprisoned under a judicial system manipulated and controlled by the forces of dictatorship. I refused to break under pressure. “My years in prison made me a stronger person and hardened my resolve to fight for democracy and justice. Those years prepared me for this moment.” The President said terror took his wife’s life. But the terrorists cannot kill his wife’s dream. “Her vision, her passion, her force is now our common task. The Benazir Bhutto Doctrine of Reconciliation lives on; it guides us in our endeavours. Her Reconciliation is the mantra of the new era, and I am dedicated to implementing what she has proposed. I wish I could do it at my wife’s side. But now I will do it in my wife’s place.” President Asif Ali Zardari said Pakistan will prove wrong all the negative predictions about its future. “We will show the way in overcoming suspicions towards and from our neighbours and building a future for our people.” “Throughout her life, my wife struggled to make the world a better place for our children, the children of Pakistan and the children of the world. “I owe it to her memory, and to all of the martyrs of democracy to continue to do the same, until the Bhutto Doctrine of Reconciliation is not just her dream but the world’s reality,” the President said.

UNITED NATIONS, Sep 25 (APP): Following is the text of the address of President Asif Ali Zardari to the UN General Assembly:- Text Begins
“Mr. President, Excellencies, Distinguished delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen, Assalaam Alaykum May peace be with you.
Excellencies,
I come before you today in the name of my late wife, Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, as a victim of terrorism representing a nation that is a victim of terrorism. I am a husband, who has seen the mother of my children give her life fighting the menaces of terrorism and fanaticism that haunt the entire civilized world. In her place and in her honor, I come before you as the elected President of a democratic Pakistan who received a two-third mandate of our Parliament and assemblies. That extraordinary mandate of our Parliament and assemblies. That extraordinary mandate of support was a vote of confidence in her, in her doctrine and in her message. That vote was an act of love and a demand for a democratic, moderate, modern, tolerant and economically just Pakistan, the essence of the Bhutto Doctrine. It has been eleven months since the first attack on my wife on October 18, 2007 was followed by a United Nations resolution calling for an inquiry into that crime against humanity. That UN resolution has so far been ineffective. After her assassination on December 27, the international community demanded an independent inquiry - a demand supported by resolutions in Pakistan’s parliament and four provincial legislatures. Today we still do not know what forces and institutions were involved, who plotted and planned and coordinated and trained and paid for the murder of my wife and my nation’s beloved leader. A UN investigation into the murder of their leader would reassure the people of Pakistan that the international community cares about them, that the UN’s charter of justice is more than rhetoric. We owe it to her. We owe it to history. If the President of a country and his children cannot get justice through the United Nations, how would the poor and the dispossessed around the world find reassurance that the UN is capable of protecting the weak and the suffering? Ladies and Gentlemen, In the name of humanity and in the name of justice, move forward quickly on the investigation of the assassination of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto, let the people of Pakistan and the world know once and for all, whose bloody hands took away one of the greatest women of history. My wife courageously returned to Pakistan last year, openly confronting the forces of terror. Three million people turned out to welcome Benazir, and to welcome the return of democracy to Pakistan. She was a brave woman who understood the dynamics of our region and the world, who understood the interrelationship between politics and economics, between social injustice and political dictatorship. For years she told world leaders that dictatorship fuels extremism and poverty fuels fanaticism. She outlined the Bhutto Doctrine of Reconciliation so brilliantly presented in her last book, a dual mission to combat dictatorship and terrorism, while promoting social and economic reform and justice for the people of Pakistan. Benazir Bhutto understood that democracy was not an end, but a beginning: that a starving child has no human rights; that a father who can not support his family is someone ripe for extremism. The Bhutto Doctrine of Reconciliation is a roadmap not only to a new Pakistan, but to a new era of peace and cooperation between East and West, between people of all faiths. It is a roadmap that if followed will avoid the clash of civilizations and clash of religions that is the terrorists’ ultimate goal. The Bhutto doctrine is the new century’s equivalent of the Marshall Plan that saved Europe after World War II. And just as the Marshall Plan was centered on the principle that an economically sound Europe could and would resist communism, the Bhutto Doctrine’s pillar is that an economically viable Pakistan will be the centerpiece of the victory of pluralism over terrorism. Ladies and gentlemen, the Bhutto doctrine will ultimately prove to be as critical to the victory of freedom in this century as the Marshall Plan was critical to the triumph of liberty in the last. Ours is the Doctrine of Reconciliation. Theirs is the Doctrine of Death. Her killers thought her elimination would end her dream of a democratic Pakistan and the balkanization of our region would enable the forces of darkness to prevail. But our nation rallied in the aftermath of her brutal and tragic assassination. If Al Qaeda and the Taliban believed that by silencing Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, they were silencing her message, they were very wrong. We have picked up the torch and will fight against terrorists who attack us, and fight against terrorists who use our territory to plan attacks against our neighbours or anywhere in the world. Ladies and gentlemen, Ours is a bloody fight, and the personal pain that my children and I feel cannot be fully expressed, nor the pain of a Nation that has been robbed of its greatest asset, its greatest leader. But the terrorists’ lust for blood and hate has not been satisfied. Only last week, the forces of evil struck against with a bloody and cowardly attack against my people. A suicide truck bomb destroyed a great building in our capital barely a stone’s throw away from my office and the house of Parliament. Once again, Pakistan is the great victim in the war on terror. And once again our people wonder whether we stand alone. Thousands of our soldiers and civilians have died fighting against the common enemies of humanity. We have lost more soldiers than all 37 countries that have forces in Afghanistan put together. The roots of today’s terrorism can be traced to a war involving the world’s superpowers in Afghanistan during the 1980s. Afghanistan and Pakistan, and increasingly the world, are reaping the bitter harvest sowed towards the end of the cold war. The world turned its back on Afghanistan after the Soviet defeat. In Pakistan, we were left with three million refugees within our borders. Their camps that soon became the breeding grounds for intolerance and violence. The West left South and Central Asia. We were left to live with the consequences. And one of its greatest consequences was the birth of Al Qaeda and the talibanization of Afghanistan and parts of our tribal areas. Yet we do not look back on history. We are victims but we will never be vanquished. On the contrary, the more of our children’s blood they spill, the stronger is our determination to defeat them. We in Pakistan stand united and in defiance. We are resolved that our future will not be dictated by these who defy the spirit and laws of Islam for their sordid political goals. We may be the targets of international terrorism, but we will never succumb to it. Toward that end, we reach out to you and to the entire civilized world. Terrorism cannot be fought by military means alone. Fighting it requires political will, popular mobilization, and a socio-e