National News

ISLAMABAD, (APP): Australia and Pakistan have shared democratic
values and many similarities in their parliamentary systems, in which parliamentary committees play a vital role, Australian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Ms Margaret Adamson said on Friday,
Addressing a farewell function held here for nineteen Pakistani
Parliamentary officers from National Assembly, Provincial Assemblies and Senate, who will visit Australia to undertake an intensive course on Effective and Efficient Management of Parliamentary Committees at University of Queensland under Australia Awards programme.
She said Australia is a strong supporter of Pakistan’s democracy and
its democratic institutions.
Wishing course participants every success, Ms Adamson said, “I trust
you will learn from Australia’s systems and experiences and make the best use of knowledge you gain to benefit the effective operation of Pakistan’s parliamentary committees.”
A similar course was offered to officials of parliamentary committees
in 2014, also under Australia Awards programme.
Following success of first course, the government of Pakistan asked
cooperation from Australian government for a second iteration of course in 2016.
Australia Awards build skills and knowledge of individuals through
long term scholarships, short course awards and other training opportunities.
Upon their return to Pakistan, the officers will join a growing,
global network of Australian alumni that are actively making a positive contribution to their countries’ development.