ISLAMABAD:
In an address to parliament that was nothing short of a scolding by an elder sibling – a well settled one at that, – Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan advised Pakistan’s political leadership to avoid going too far in their rivalry, lest it costs them the democratic system itself.
The Turkish prime minister, who has already completed two highly successful terms as premier since 2003 and is currently in his third, enjoys good relations with the Pakistani government and opposition alike.
In his extempore speech, delivered in Turkish, to a joint session of parliament, Prime Minister Erdogan had plenty of advice for an increasingly cantankerous opposition in Pakistan: “The real role of the opposition is not to criticise the government merely for the sake of criticism but to point out the ills that need to be corrected.”
Just the Turkish prime minister’s presence had a calming effect on the burgeoning tension between the government and the opposition – evident from the fact that, not only were most Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) parliamentarians in attendance, but Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif was also present.
The last few sessions of parliament have seen the opposition raise hell – including sloganeering, protesting and walking out – in order to press for the resignation of Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani, following his conviction by the Supreme Court in a contempt case last month.
Though there was no mention of a speech by the opposition leader on the agenda for the day, the National Assembly speaker provided an opportunity to Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan to make a statement.
“I would be frank,” Nisar said, “it is because of you that we have put all our differences aside to honour and welcome a true friend of Pakistan.”
He welcomed the Turkish prime minister saying “You (Tayyip Erdogan) have come at a very difficult time for us. We, as a country, are facing problems globally and locally.” He reiterated that the opposition was present only because of him.
Appreciating Turkey’s stance on issues related to Palestine, Israel and Kashmir, Nisar said that taking such a position qualifies Erdogan to play the role of a spokesman for the Islamic world. Nisar suggested that Erdogan act as a bridge between the west and Islamic world. The Turkish prime minister’s about 20-minute speech earned him a huge round of applause, as parliamentarians expressed their gratitude through desk thumping.
Premier Erdogan will also hold meetings with key political leaders, including PML-N chief Nawaz Sharif and other groups out to dislodge the government. The Turkish premier, thought to be one of the most respected world leaders across Pakistan’s political spectrum, is visiting the country amid simmering uncertainty in Pakistan – on the domestic and global fronts.
Turkey, it should be added, is also a member of Nato – whose supply route in Afghanistan has been blocked by Pakistan for six months now.
Insiders confirmed that his visit was meant to cool hyped political tempers.
“A strong democratic system in Pakistan could lead to an equally strong economic system that could benefit its people,” he said, while advising the youth to come forward and participate in the national democratic process. He said there was heavy responsibility on the nation’s parliamentarians.
Erdogan also noted the huge sacrifices rendered by Pakistan in fight against terrorism during the recent years and said “We understand your pain and will continue to stand by you in the days ahead.” He assured that Turkey and Pakistan would stand together in the fight against terrorism and that the trilateral arrangement among Pakistan, Turkey and Afghanistan would continue to build towards regional peace.
Prime Minister Gilani thanked his Turkish counterpart, saying his second address to Parliament was another milestone in the long and glorious journey of friendship of two countries. Earlier, Speaker NA Dr. Fehmida Mirza welcomed PM Erdogan saying he was the only foreign leader to have addressed Pakistan’s Parliament twice.
After the joint session, Shahbaz Sharif said that the opposition had put aside its differences with the government only to welcome Prime Minister Erdogan, who had helped Pakistan in every hour of need. When asked for comments over PM Erdogan’s suggestion for the opposition to play its due role, he said, “how can we remain tightlipped when the PM is a convict and has allegations of corruption.”
Information Minister Qamar Zaman Kaira said that PML-N’s presence reflected maturity which will have a positive impact on political environment.
Later Prime Minster Gilani held a dinner in honour of Premier Erdogan – which was also attended by a well-behaved opposition.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 22nd, 2012.
COMMENTS (8)
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By the way, Turkey Pm never mentioned kashmir or Israel in his speech. That is the disconnect of pakistan with the world. erdogan came visiting to admonish pakistan on behalf of USA and Nato. they are all taking pity on pakistans doomed state.
Erum khala no need to take pity on Pakistan and Pakistanis as we are great nation and capable enough to face all the tough challenges confronting the country, so don't worry and keep your fingers crossed!
AOA
Pakistan! I think its a great shame for Pakistani political leaders that every one gives them advice that don't fight each others .............. think about your country.
Pakistan needs a faithful leaders.
My Pakistan God bless you their is no true political leader with you every one think about how to make my swiz Banks how to take out blood of innocent Pakistanis .....................
People of Pakistan your worse days are coming. This agent is here to give you anesthesia and Empire is on its way to operate you.
Pakistan cant be and would never be Turkey. We will never send our army and bombers to attack any Muslim state and kill hundred of thousands. We will never harbor terrorist to destabilize any neighbor Muslim state in the name of human rights and strengthen hands of enemies of Islam. We will never keep any fugitive terrorist leader in name of medical treatment. Its a long list of Turkish atrocities in the world. Pakistanis don't need lessons from Mr. Prime Minister Erdogan. Its better for him to come clean, leave empire slavery and then talk. Long Live Pakistan.
Respect all the way to the visiting Ottoman!
Sir in Pakistan some parties and forces do not believe in democracy and endorse high treason against the constitution. These dark forces have no chance to come into power except via violence and backdoor. We never accept people's verdict and from the next day start to undo the election results. If my party has not won, then don't let the govt work and oppose every move of the govt at all costs.
Our opposition parties in parliament must learn real democratic values from the speech of Tyipp Erdogan. Instead of presenting solutions for various problems of country they are involved in useless processions. Speech o Tyipp Erdogan is really a smash on the face of opposition as well as ruling party. They claim that they are moving towards a democratic country. But in reality they do not know even the meaning of democracy.