‘Pakistan, India to carry forward talks’

Senators condemn attacks on Maulana Fazl; opposition flays fuel price hike.

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan and India have decided to carry forward the dialogue process and all issues, including the core issue of Kashmir, were discussed with the Indian leadership in Mohali.

Briefing the Senate about his recent India visit, Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani said the cricket match provided an opportunity for bringing closer both the nations and their leaderships.

He said the outcome of this meeting was very positive and both the sides agreed to move forward for resolving various issues, working for peace.

Referring to the recent hike in fuel prices, Gilani said that they were linked with international market and the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority set the oil prices.

He said that the government had so far given a subsidy of Rs35 billion on petroleum products this year. He said that the government had tried its best to cushion the people against the sharp increase in oil prices in the international market.

Gilani stressed the need for devising a consensus on a national strategy to overcome the menace of terrorism.

The prime minister appreciated the Senate for making useful legislation on various issues, especially a bill regarding bringing transparency in the election process. He said only transparent and free election could ensure a sustainable democratic system.

Referring to various issues confronting Balochsitan, the prime minister said that the government was focusing on the development of this province with an objective to remove the sense of deprivation.

He said government was aware of the deteriorating law and order situation in the province and it was taking all possible measures to bring peace.

Later, the house passed a resolution condemning attacks on Maulana Fazlur Rehman.

The Senate unanimously passed two bills, including the arbitration (international investment disputes) bill of 2010 and the code of criminal procedure (amendment) bill of 2010.

Earlier, the opposition parties staged a token walk-out from the House to register their protest against increase in the prices of petroleum products.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 2^nd,  2011.