**Speaker Ayaz Sadiq Meets UK Counterpart Sir Lindsay Hoyle at Geneva Conference, Stresses Need for Enhanced Parliamentary Cooperation**
Speaker of Pakistan’s National Assembly, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, met with his UK counterpart, Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle, on the sidelines of the Sixth Speakers’ Conference in Geneva. The two leaders discussed deepening bilateral parliamentary cooperation, the promotion of democratic values, and other matters of mutual interest.
During the meeting, Speaker Sadiq emphasized the longstanding, historical, and cordial relationship between Pakistan and the United Kingdom, describing it as a high priority for Pakistan. He highlighted the need for increased interaction between the parliaments of both countries to further strengthen ties at the grassroots level. Sadiq noted that enhanced parliamentary cooperation would not only bolster democratic traditions but also add new dimensions to bilateral relations.
Speaker Sadiq also underscored the pivotal role played by the Pakistani community in the UK, describing it as a strong bridge fostering collaboration in cultural, educational, and commercial sectors. He said that this community contributes significantly towards advancing cooperation between the two nations.
Addressing regional issues, Speaker Sadiq brought attention to the situation in Indian-held Jammu and Kashmir. He condemned ongoing human rights violations in the area, calling them contrary to international law and human values. Sadiq asserted that resolving the Kashmir dispute in accordance with United Nations Security Council resolutions is imperative for lasting peace in the region.
Both speakers agreed that intensifying parliamentary diplomacy is crucial to addressing global challenges such as the erosion of democratic norms, human rights violations, and issues of international peace and security. They reiterated their shared commitment to protecting democratic values and expanding parliamentary cooperation between their countries.
