Right to vote for expatriates under consideration: Firdous

Minister for Information and Broadcasting Dr Firdous Ashiq Awan said the government was considering legislation to grant right of vote to Pakistanis living abroad. She was speaking at an Award Ceremony organised by the 14th of August Committee of Pakistani Community in Norway, which had announced a “Bridge Building Award” for Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani. Dr Firdous received the award on behalf of the Prime Minister. The award was announced in recognition of the Prime Minister’s services for strengthening of democracy, promotion of human rights and his efforts for normalization of Indo-Pak relations.Dr Awan acknowledging the role of millions of Pakistanis living and working abroad said they were an asset of Pakistan who were remarkably contributing to the national economy.The Information Minister elaborated the sacrifices offered and the role played by Pakistan against extremists and terrorists, steps for protection of rights of minorities in Pakistan, incentives for increased investment, efforts for the uplift of less developed areas, efforts for strengthening economic ties with European Union, Pakistan’s relations with China and the United States and measures for promoting inter-faith harmony.She said Pakistan attaches great importance to its trade and economic relations with Norway. She paid tribute to the 14th of August Committee of Oslo for building bridges between the Pakistani Community and the people of Norway.