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Pakistan regains Commonwealth membership
(Xinhua) -- The Commonwealth re-admitted Pakistan as a full member on Monday after a six-month suspension triggered by imposition of emergency in Pakistan on November 3, 2007, local newspaper The News reported. The suspension was lifted after a meeting of key ministers of the 53-nation Commonwealth in London, said the report. The Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) agreed that since November "the government of Pakistan has taken positive steps to fulfill its obligations in accordance with Commonwealth fundamental values and principles." The Commonwealth also urged Pakistan to "reinforce the independence of the judiciary and resolve current issues through the parliamentary process as soon as possible so that it contributes to democratic political stability in Pakistan." "There (is) need for reform. In this regard it welcomes the new government's state intention to reform the election commission and enhance its independence," the statement added. The Commonwealth suspended Pakistan's membership and its right to participate in meetings of the organization Nov. 22 last year when Pakistan failed to lift the state of emergency before the deadline given by the Commonwealth. Posted by: Fred 2008-05-13 |
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