ISLAMABAD: A visiting European parliament delegation has strongly commended Pakistan’s constructive contributions towards maintaining regional stability and promoting global peace. The delegation visited Parliament House on Tuesday and met National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq.

“Pakistan’s proactive diplomatic engagements remain vital in defusing cross-border tensions and fostering connectivity,” the delegation members noted.

Led by Ms Mary Khan, Member of the European Parliament, the delegation included Mr Dennis Hohloch, Mr Stanislav Stoyanov, Mr Tomasz Froelich, Mr Dan Paddock and Mr Moses.

The lawmakers further emphasised that Pakistan’s unique geographical position makes it a critical partner for continental security and economic cooperation. Underscoring the long-term nature of the relationship, the delegation affirmed that the European Union places a high premium on its multifaceted ties with Islamabad, paving the way for deeper trade and parliamentary relations.

“Pakistani nation is resilient and peace-loving,” they said.

Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq said Pakistan attaches great importance to its relations with the European Union and its member states.

He expressed Pakistan’s desire to further strengthen parliamentary relations with the European Union and proposed the establishment of a Pakistan-European Union Parliamentary Friendship Group.

He said enhanced parliamentary contacts would provide opportunities for exchanging experiences, information and best practices between the two sides.

Mr Sadiq said that although Pakistan contributes less than one per cent to global GHG emissions, it is severely affected by the adverse impacts of climate change, which has emerged as a major challenge for the country. He urged the international community to play its role in addressing climate-related challenges.

Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq also said that Pakistan’s Parliament is the world’s first green Parliament.

He said the use of solar energy in Parliament is an environment-friendly initiative and reflects Pakistan’s commitment to sustainable and green development.

Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq said minorities in Pakistan enjoyed freedom and constitutional rights. He appreciated the role of minority parliamentarians in Parliament and said all relevant state institutions were working for the protection of minority rights.

Speaker Sadiq said sophisticated weapons left behind by Nato forces in Afghanistan were being used against innocent Pakistani citizens and the country’s security forces. He said Pakistan had demonstrated considerable restraint in response to recent Indian aggression.

“Pakistan had demonstrated restraint in response to unprovoked Indian aggression and played a responsible role for regional peace and stability,” he said.

He said Pakistan remained committed to a peaceful resolution of the Kashmir issue.

Published in Dawn, September 24th, 2026