By: Aslam Chandio from Islamabad, Pakistan
Ambassador of Denmark in Pakistan, Jesper M. Sorensen has stated that as part of Denmark’s newly launched USD 50 million development programme, assistance will now be provided to provincial assemblies in the areas of legislation, policy and budget oversight, and for the national human rights system and capacities to promote and protect human rights.
Ambassador of Denmark, Jesper M. Sorensen on Thursday called on Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, Speaker of National Assembly of Pakistan.
During the meeting, Danish Ambassador Sorensen stressed that Parliament is not only the very symbol of Pakistan’s democracy, but also in keeping government accountable as elected representatives on behalf of the people.
The Danish Ambassador welcomed the newly established Pakistan-Denmark Parliamentary Friendship Group which will promote and deepen friendly relations between the two democratic countries. The promotion and awareness of democracy, human rights and gender equality continue to be key elements in the Danish support to Pakistan.
Danish Ambassador Sorensen stressed that the continued commitment and cooperation of the Parliament and assemblies are essential to consolidate the democratic process in Pakistan.
Referring to Pakistan’s role in the region, Danish Ambassador Sorensen stated, “Pakistan is a key player – also in the global fight against terrorism and extremism. We can never forget the terrible sacrifices, terrorism and extremism have inflicted on this country.”
In addition to its development cooperation programme, Pakistan is also part of Denmark’s regional peace and stabilization programme that addresses issues such as border control and counter-IED.
The Danish Ambassador stated that Denmark wants to increase trade relations between Denmark and Pakistan. He shared that the Danish Embassy is now actively engaged in creating partnerships between Danish and Pakistani companies. Pakistan can take advantage of the Danish competencies and products in areas such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, life science, and agriculture.
Aslam Chandio is an Islamabad based journalist. He tweets at @aslamchandio_