Former U.S. Secretary of State Ms. Madeleine Albright, now serving as Chair of the National Democratic Institute (NDI) called on the Prime Minister

Former U.S. Secretary of State Ms. Madeleine Albright, now serving as Chair of the National Democratic Institute (NDI) called on the Prime Minister earlier today. She was joined by former U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan Amb. Cameron Munter, NDI President Kenneth Wollack and Director Asia Peter Manikas.

Ms. Albright praised the Pakistani nation on the historic transfer of power from one civilian government to the next following the May 11 elections which demonstrated the strong conviction of the people of Pakistan in democracy. On behalf of NDI, she offered continued support for strengthening democracy in the country.

The Prime Minister emphasized that democracy has taken roots in Pakistan. He acknowledged the contribution of NDI in improving the electoral systems in the country and also expressed the desire of the Government of Pakistan to continue working closely with international organizations such as NDI to consolidate the democratic gains in Pakistan.

The Prime Minister was assisted by Finance Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Advisor on National Security and Foreign Affairs Mr. Sartaj Aziz, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Mr. Tariq Fatemi and Foreign Secretary Jalil Abbas Jilani.

October 22, 2013
Washington DC