‘Extraordinary’ parliamentary engagements Ayaz cancels visit to Australia

ISLAMABAD: National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq has cancelled his visit to Australia where he was to lead Pakistan’s delegation for the 67th Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference (CPC). He was due to leave tomorrow (Friday).

The six-day conference will commence from Sunday (Nov 3). Ayaz was to dilate upon international issues, including peace and security, climate change and harmony among the nations. Highly placed diplomatic sources told The News here on Wednesday that the speaker called off his visit due to extraordinary parliamentary engagements, including the much-talked-about legislation about the judiciary.

PPP leader Naveed Qamar could lead Pakistan’s delegation, who is serving as member of the national legislature for the sixth consecutive term. Addressing the CPC, he will stress inclusive development and subjects of common interest.

The CPC is being hosted by the Parliament of New South Wales and CPA New South Wales Branch in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. The conference will conclude on November 8 and would provide an opportunity to legislators to discuss issues of mutual interest.