National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq expressed alarm over Afghanistan becoming a haven for terrorism targeting Pakistan, urging international cooperation to combat this threat. He highlighted Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and pointed to climate change as another pressing challenge. Sadiq praised legislative advancements in Pakistan and invited Harvard students to visit and discover the country’s true character, beyond its negative media portrayal.
National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq addressed a delegation of Harvard University students, emphasizing the alarming reality that Afghanistan has become a sanctuary for terrorist organizations targeting Pakistan. He remarked on the pressing challenge of terrorism and extremism, articulating that Afghanistan serves as a base for these terrorist activities, which threaten regional and international stability.
Sardar Ayaz Sadiq highlighted the risks posed by unchecked terrorism, invoking the memory of 9/11 as a cautionary tale that underscores the potential for regional issues to escalate into global security concerns. He urged the international community to view terrorism as a formidable threat that necessitates a collaborative approach to combat effectively. “Pakistan has long been at the forefront of the battle against terrorism,” he asserted.
He reiterated that the Pakistani government has consistently provided the Afghan interim government with evidence of the terrorist organizations operating from Afghan territory. This critical matter, he stated, has been raised in international forums such as the United Nations and communicated to high-ranking officials in the United States. Sadiq also expressed grave concerns regarding the sophisticated weaponry, estimated at $7 billion, left behind in Afghanistan, which is currently being utilized against Pakistan.
Praising the dedication and valor of Pakistan’s security forces, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq noted that over 90,000 sacrifices have been made in the nation’s ongoing struggle against terrorism. He underscored that terrorism threatens the very fabric of civilization and must be eradicated for the benefit of all nations.
Additionally, the Speaker addressed the critical challenge of climate change, highlighting Pakistan’s minimal contribution of 0.06 percent to global greenhouse gas emissions while being among the most vulnerable to its impacts. He urged developed nations, which account for the bulk of emissions, to amend their practices and assist developing countries like Pakistan that are grappling with severe climate-related adversities.
Sardar Ayaz Sadiq emphasized that action must be taken swiftly to rectify the imbalance regarding climate change and called for international cooperation to address its ramifications. He remarked that climate change represents a global issue that requires a collective effort from the international community to mitigate its effects.
Furthermore, the Speaker noted the progress made by the National Assembly regarding modernization and digitalization, including reforms aimed at enhancing legislative transparency and efficiency. One notable initiative he mentioned was the establishment of a law drafting council, which has significantly improved legislative quality.
The National Assembly is also dedicated to youth empowerment, having trained over 5,000 young interns in legislative practices through practical experience. Additionally, initiatives such as Mock Parliaments have encouraged youth participation in public policy discussions. He stated, “This initiative aims to build a future generation of informed leaders capable of navigating complex political landscapes.”
Under his leadership, the Pakistan Institute for Parliamentary Services has evolved into a leading training center for legislators, significantly contributing to parliamentary expertise and democratic governance. The Parliament House, recognized as the world’s first Green Parliament, reflects the National Assembly’s commitment to environmental sustainability and effective governance.
Sardar Ayaz Sadiq also pointed out that global social media does not accurately portray Pakistan, inviting Harvard students to discover the country’s rich natural resources and remarkable landscapes. He specifically mentioned the serene northern regions and Pakistan’s status as a key producer of fruits, including mangoes and oranges.
An open invitation was extended to the students to visit Pakistan, with assured hospitality and peace contrary to the negative portrayals seen in media. The NA speaker expressed hope that first-hand engagement would provide the students with a deeper understanding of Pakistan’s challenges and strengths.
In conclusion, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq’s address to Harvard students highlighted critical issues facing Pakistan, including the threats of terrorism emanating from Afghanistan and the existential challenge of climate change. He emphasized the need for collaborative international efforts to combat terrorism and called for developed nations to assist vulnerable countries like Pakistan in addressing climate-related challenges. Additionally, he showcased the National Assembly’s commitment to modernization, digitalization, and youth empowerment, while also inviting students to explore the true essence of Pakistan beyond its misrepresented media image.
Original Source: www.thenews.com.pk
