Spokesman Report

Islamabad: Center of Research & Security Studies (CRSS) organized a two-day conference titled Pakistan-Afghanistan Civil Society. The main purpose of the conference was to discuss the severe economic political and humanitarian crisis after the Taliban took over the government in Afghanistan. While talking to the women participants of the conference, Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation & Social Safety, Ms. Shazia Marri said that no country or nation can rise to the heights of glory without women participation. Our religion provides equal rights to both men and women. If a girl or a woman is talented she can contribute the development of country. She said that Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) is the largest social safety net programme of the country which is providing economic and social empowerment to 7.28m families and our target is to reach 8m families by June this year. BISP is creating a strong impact on the lives of millions of its female beneficiaries. Discussing about the historical relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the minister said Pakistan has always been a considerate neighbor and has done what it can to help the people of Afghanistan. We understand that Afghanistan expects Pakistan’s cooperation in the field of education, basic human rights and health. Pakistan provided visas to the Afghan post Taliban takeover. We were the only country which provided visas at that time. Pak also ensured trade and truck movement facilitation to improve economic activity between the two countries, the minister said. She further stated that Pakistan wants Afghanistan to develop and excel in different areas. Pakistan wants polices of inclusive government in Afghanistan. There should be rule of law, respect of humanity, trade between both the countries and focus on the education of young girls in Afghanistan, she said. Later on, she also listened to the issues of Afghan women activists and assured full support from the concerned authorities. She said that she would raise their concerns and issues to the present government. She said that she would remain stand with Afghan girls and women fighting for their rights.