EU Parliamentary Delegation Led by Șerban Dimitrie Sturdza Meets Speaker Ayaz Sadiq

ISLAMABAD:۔Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has said that international collaboration is essential  in addressing global challenges such as terrorism and climate change.  He added that Pakistan continues to face the grave challenge of terrorism, which he stressed is not a localized issue but a global menace.

 He noted that the spread of gun and drug culture from Afghanistan has severely impacted Pakistan’s internal security. He expressed these views during a meeting with the European Union Parliamentary Delegation, led by Mr. Șerban Dimitrie Sturdza (ECR, Romania), Chair of the Delegation for Relations with South Asian Countries.

He further pointed out that over $8 billion worth of advanced weaponry, left behind by NATO and U.S. forces in Afghanistan are now being used by terrorist groups against Pakistan. “Afghanistan has unfortunately become the epicenter of regional terrorism,” he remarked, emphasizing that both Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces have borne the brunt of these threats.

The Speaker also briefed  the delegation that Pakistan has fought multiple wars against terror, often on behalf of the international community. “This is not a war that any one nation can win alone—it requires a unified global response,” he asserted.He strongly condemned the recent attacks in Balochistan, especially the tragedy involving the Jaffar Express, calling the perpetrators “anti-state elements who have crossed all bounds of humanity.” He reaffirmed Pakistan’s determination to eradicate terrorism, praising the bravery and sacrifices of the armed forces.Entrepreneurs

Reiterating Pakistan’s commitment to democratic principles, Speaker  Sardar Ayaz Sadiq said, “The continuity of democracy is essential for national development.” He underscored the historic significance of the 26th Constitutional Amendment related to judicial reforms and noted his own role in bridging the gap between opposition and treasury benches.He also highlighted that, in the spirit of democratic values, he issued production orders for arrested members of parliament—especially from the opposition—to ensure their right to participate in assembly sessions and voice their opinions freely.

the Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq Further,  stated that the issue of enforced disappearances is often exaggerated.  He said that for enhancing parliamentary  diplomacy, the National Assembly of Pakistan established parliamentary friendship groups in 2014, which are playing an effective role for enhancing parliamentary diplomacy He said that parliamentary caucus on  Child Rights, the SDGs Secretariat, the Young Parliamentary Forum, and the Gender Mainstreaming Committee have been established for ensuring fundamental rights for marginalized segment of society.

Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq stressed that climate change poses an existential threat to humanity and called for enhanced international cooperation to combat its effects. “Pakistan has been at the frontline of climate-related disasters, including devastating floods,” he said, expressing gratitude to the European Union for its consistent support during these crises.

the Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq reiterated Pakistan’s stance in support of oppressed communities around the world, including those in Kashmir and Palestine. He emphasized the need for justice, peace, and human dignity in international issues. He also reiterated Pakistan support for the resolution of the Ukraine issue through dialogue.

Mr. Șerban Dimitrie Sturdza reaffirmed the European Union’s continued support for Pakistan across the social and economic sectors. He acknowledged Pakistan’s sacrifices in the war on terror and its longstanding hospitality toward Afghan refugees.“

The challenges of today whether terrorism, economic instability, or climate change—require collective global efforts,” he stated, adding that the EU values Pakistan as a key partner in promoting democracy, freedom of speech, and rule of law.

Irish delegate Mr. Michael McNamara shared Ireland’s experiences in dealing with terrorism and emphasized the importance of inter-parliamentary cooperation and trade. “Trade agreements between Pakistan and European countries play a vital role in strengthening bilateral relations, especially in areas like human rights, labour rights, and climate resilience,” he noted.

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Speaker National Assembly, Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah, and members of the National Assembly Ms. Munaza Hassan and Mr. Danial Chaudhry; and Dr. Riina Kionka, Ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan.