ISLAMABAD: National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has highlighted the significance of parliamentary supremacy for the development and growth of democratic institutions, as the world marks International Day of Parliamentarism today, Sunday, which is annually celebrated on June 30.
The date was chosen to coincide with the founding of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in 1889 in Paris, an organization dedicated to fostering dialogue and cooperation between parliaments worldwide.
In Pakistan, this observance holds particular significance as the country’s history of parliamentary dissolution during military coups illustrates the fragile nature of people’s democratic representation in the nation’s political fabric.
Sadiq called it an important day in a statement issued by his office a day earlier.
“This day is significant as it highlights the crucial role Parliaments play in promoting democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law,” he was quoted as saying.
He reiterated Pakistani parliament’s commitment to upholding these principles and ensuring the democratic institution’s continued growth and development.
“A strong Parliament is the cornerstone of a stable democracy, and it is essential for ensuring the protection and promotion of democratic values,” he continued, adding: “The National Assembly is committed to strengthening the institution and ensuring the supremacy of Parliament in the country.”
The speaker described Pakistan as an “active member of the IPU,” pointing toward its commitment to democracy and sustainable development worldwide.

ISLAMABAD: Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri Moghadam, made a veiled reference on Saturday to a resolution passed by the United States House of Representatives, criticizing it for demanding an impartial probe into the rigging allegations that followed Pakistan’s February 8 elections and calling it “modern ignorance.”
The resolution, overwhelmingly adopted by US lawmakers this week, expressed concern over the state of democracy in Pakistan and called for freedom of media and speech. It also condemned attempts to “suppress” the participation of people in their democracy, asking the government to uphold their human, civil, and political rights.
Pakistan sharply reacted to the development, describing it as “unsolicited” advice and demanding that bilateral relations with the US be based on the principles of “mutual respect and non-interference.”
“Among wonders of modern ignorance: a country prevents ceasefire by veto, supports #GenocideinGaza by providing lethal weapons to Zionist regime, but Congress passes a resolution questioning election in an independent UN member,” Ambassador Moghadam wrote in a social media post, calling it “extortion under the guise of supporting democracy.”

Iran is among the nations that have criticized the United States for its support of Israel’s actions in Gaza, particularly highlighting the US use of its veto power in the United Nations Security Council.
Additionally, Iran has issued a stern warning to Israel, indicating that any attack on Lebanon could lead to a “devastating” war.