EU renews call for release of judges, lawyers
ISLAMABAD: The European Union on Monday deeply regretted that not all political detainees, including judges and lawyers, were released and thus prevented from taking part in the electoral process.
“The EU renews its call for their immediate release. It also reiterates the need for freedom of the media,” the EU said in a statement through the embassy of France. The EU says it hopes to see swift moves towards the formation of a stable and functional government which can start addressing core issues for Pakistan’s future such as strengthening the democratic system, re-establishment of an independent judiciary, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and issues related to regional peace and stability.
“The EU welcomes the elections held in Pakistan on February 18. It congratulates the Pakistani people for their commitment to democratic development and their rejection of extremist forces. The elections provide a basis for a new democratic development in Pakistan,” said the statement.
As talks between the main political parties continue for the formation of a new government in Islamabad and in the provinces, the EU says, “We hope to see swift moves towards the formation of a stable and functional Government which can start addressing core issues for Pakistan’s future such as strengthening the democratic system, re-establishment of an independent judiciary, respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, and issues related to regional peace and stability.”
The European Union is reiterating its commitment to the people ofPakistan in helping them build a prosperous and stable society, based on the principle of democracy and the rule of law. “The successful deployment of a comprehensive EU Election Observation Mission during the elections is ample evidence of this continuing engagement,” adds the statement.
Source: The News
Date:2/26/2008
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