Pakistan’s parliament held a heated debate on Thursday over a U.S. House of Representatives resolution calling for an independent investigation into allegations of election fraud in the country.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar strongly condemned the resolution and announced plans to introduce a counter-resolution in parliament. Dar said Pakistan rejects the U.S. House resolution and will not tolerate any interference in its internal affairs.
Dar also announced that the government would convene a special session of parliament to discuss foreign policy issues, including the Palestinian conflict. Dar stressed that Pakistan has openly condemned Israel’s actions and called for an immediate halt to violence against the Palestinian people.
Several opposition lawmakers criticized the government’s foreign policy, particularly its stance on the Palestinian issue.
They argued that Pakistan has not properly supported the Palestinians and has compromised its foreign policy by aligning with different countries at different times.
The lawmakers stressed the importance of improving relations with neighbouring countries such as Iran and India, and the need for a clear foreign policy towards Afghanistan.
read more
Over 50 billion rupees given to beneficiaries of Benazir Kafalat Scheme
Court is expected to deliver crucial verdict against Imran Khan today
Despite Prime Minister Aurangzeb’s announcement, the government plans to impose sales tax on stationery
The debate was briefly halted when a power outage occurred in the Capitol, but resumed once power was restored.
Parliament approved a budget of over Rs 51.86 billion for the Foreign Affairs Department, but rejected 27 opposition motions to cut the department’s subsidy requirements.