At the end of a 15-day private session, the Pakistani parliament has adopted a resolution that pledges to review Pakistan’s strategy in the war on terror, give preference to dialogue over military operation against the Taliban, and withdraw security forces from the restive tribal areas.

Urging the government to prepare an independent foreign policy to establish regional stability, the 14-point resolution, adopted unanimously, stressed that Pakistan’s sovereignty and regional security will be defended. It also noted that the Pakistani nation is united against external aggression, a reference to U.S. missile attacks on Taliban hideouts.

The key highlights of the resolution include: a) expel foreign militants from Pakistan; b) prevent use of Pakistani soil for perpetrating terror against any other country; c) talk with all parties to eradicate extremism, terrorism and sectarianism (Shia-Sunni conflicts); d) give preference to dialogue over military operation against Taliban militants; e) gradually withdraw troops from tribal areas; f) deploy civilian security forces in place of Pakistani Army; g) secure Pakistan’s interests by increasing trades with its neighbors; h) encourage talks with Baluch rebels; etc.

Source: Roznama Express, Pakistan, October 23, 2008