Democratic forces should show maturity to address national issues; Gilani
ISLAMABAD, May 11 (APP):  Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani on Wednesday urged all democratic forces to show maturity and wisdom in addressing national issues at a critical juncture. In his opening remarks at a meeting of the federal cabinet, the first after the Abbotabad incident, Gilani said the cabinet now comprises leaders from all major political parties who are aware of the problems confronting the country but also have the will and determination to resolve these.
The Prime Minister welcomed the newly inducted Federal Ministers and Ministers of State from Pakistan Muslim League (Q) and from Mutahida Qaumi Movement as “partners”  and hoped, that the allies would help overcome the difficulties facing the nation.
He said he strongly believes that politics of confrontation needs to be shunned and all democratic forces need to show sincerity of purpose, maturity and wisdom in addressing national issues. 
He said the country was beset with economic and security challenges that can be addressed by working together. He said Pakistan’s economic situation was improving and foreign exchange reserves at their highest, with remittances from abroad standing at all-time high nine billion dollars till April 2011.
He said country’s export earnings for the first 10 months of financial year 2010-11 have crossed US dollars 20 billion, which  again was a record.
Gilani hoped that partners in government would not only bring political stability and strengthen democracy but would also do their part in sending a positive signal to investors, businessmen and trade circles about its commitment to continue with economic, financial and social reforms.
“We are open to new ideas and innovation that I am sure our partners will bring with them in taking charge of their responsibilities.”
He hoped that transparency and optimum standards of efficiency in performance of duties would be maintained.
Referring to Abbotabad incident the Prime Minister said he has given an elaborate policy statement in the National Assembly and Senate, and said a joint session of the Parliament was also being held to discuss it.
Ch. Pervaiz Elahi, Senior Minister said that since day one, when PML (Q) gave vote of confidence to the Prime Minister, their party was committed that the democratic government be extended all possible support to complete its five-years term.
Keeping in view the present circumstances and realizing the fact that the government needs political support to face the national challenges, the PML (Q)decided to join the government. His party he added, feels that political stability can bring economic stability and peace in the country.
The Prime Minister said the situation demands greater political cohesion to confront the challenges.
“As a democratic and nuclear state we need to demonstrate greater responsibility.”
He termed it encouraging that all political parties were concerned and united on national issues and added that “this unity will give a positive message to the whole world.”