ISLAMABAD: The Hanns Seidel Foundation (HSF) Pakistan along with some of its European stakeholders commemorated the International Day of Parliamentarism on 30th June 2021. The event featured statements from Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) highlighting the importance of parliamentary work and the need of inclusive parliaments as well as global cooperation in this regard.
The German MEP Michael Gahler, Spokesman on Foreign Affairs for the European People's Party Group, celebrated the World Parliament Day in Brussels, Belgium with a video message on the need for inclusive parliaments. He highlighted:
Parliaments are the houses of the people and therefore the most important pillars of democracy. […] Therefore, it is paramount that all segments of society have ample representation and say in parliamentary affairs.
In his video message, Michael Gahler also appreciated the role of HSF in strengthening legislative capacities in Pakistan and around the world. In 2018, he headed the official EU Election Observation Mission to Pakistan.
Mr. Milan Zver MEP, the Slovenian Vice Chair of the Delegation for relations with the countries of South Asia at the European Parliament, said:
Parliaments represent the interests of the people. They make sure that everyone can benefit from laws, in Europe, South Asia and beyond. I am glad that organizations such as HSF Pakistan support parliamentary dialogue and cooperation internationally!
The Czech MEP Mr. Tomáš Zdechovský, Member of the Delegation for relations with the countries of South Asia at the European Parliament, stressed on the importance of active citizenship and parliamentary spirit in his message.
Dr. Steffen Kudella, Resident Representative of HSF Pakistan, appreciated the initiative to mark the International Day of Parliamentarism and stressed:
Since future generations need to live with many of the political choices made today, their interests should be represented in today’s parliaments all across the world. Hence, I say yes to youth in parliament!
HSF supports good governance in Pakistan through parliamentary work including legislative capacity building of the members and staff of the Parliament of Pakistan. It also promotes youth participation in political affairs through project activities in collaboration with its multiple partners including the National Assembly and the Senate of Pakistan and the National Dialogue Forum.
HSF is the oldest German political foundation in Pakistan. For more information on HSF’s work in Pakistan please visit: pakistan.hss.de. Press contact: islamabad@hss.de.