Gilani resolves not to compromise upon country’s sovereignty, dignity in Davis case
ISLAMABAD, Feb 21 (APP): Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Monday reiterated government’s firm resolve of not making any compromise upon country’s sovereignty and dignity in Raymond Davis case.“We are a responsible government and conscious of the sentiments of our people.Every time difficult circumstances have tested our resolve to stand by the sentiments and the will of the people of Pakistan,” he said, while giving a policy statement in the National Assembly on Raymond Davis case.He said that for the past few days the nation’s attention had been focused on the tragic killing of two Pakistanis, by a US citizen Raymond Davis, on January 27, and the death of a third person by  the US Consulate vehicle in Lahore.
“There is a difference of opinion between Pakistan and the United States in the case of Davis on the issue of interpretation and applicability of international and national laws. This is because of ambiguity and inconsistency that is reflected in the available record,” he said.he Prime Minister said Pakistan believed in the rule of law and had consistently called for justice and followed the rule of law both on the international and national affairs.
“We are mindful of our international obligations under the Vienna Convention and other international legal instruments to which we are the signatory,” he said.
He said the entire nation had strongly condemned the Lahore incident and demanded justice.
“I once again condemn this tragic, sad and unfortunate incident. Our hearts go out to the members of the bereaved families, who have lost their loved ones. I personally, on behalf of the government and all members of this House convey to the families of the deceased our sentiments of sorrow and sympathy.”
The Prime Minister said that the Lahore High Court on February 1, passed an order which inter-alia states “the matter of enjoying diplomatic status by the accused has neither arisen so far nor the same has been claimed on behalf of the accused persons.
“The court has already taken cognizance in the matter, the investigation into the above noted criminal cases is going on and if any matter on immunity arises in future that can be determined by the courts of law.”
He said the Lahore High Court also ordered to place the name of Raymond Davis on Exit Control List.
Prime Minister Gilani said expert opinion has been sought by the Government, adding “I wish to categorically assure this august house and the nation, the goverment’s firm resolve to adopt a course that fully accords with dictates of justice and the rule of law.”
He said as partner in peace and progress the democratic peoples Government in Pakistan and President Obama’s administration are working hard to build a long term strategic relationship.
He said “I am confident both governments will not allow the Davis case to hamper this mutually beneficial partnership.”
He assured the House and the nation that the Government will not compromise on Pakistan’s sovereignty and dignity.
“We are the inheritors of the political tradition and legacy of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Benazir Bhutto and we will continue to stand by it,” he said.