Washington, DC- Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee, Co-Chair of the Congressional Pakistan Caucus, released the following statement at a briefing discussing the importance of the new government in Pakistan:

 “The February 18th parliamentary elections will forever be marked as the day that the citizens of Pakistan united to participate in the process of democracy, giving a profound tribute to one of the world greatest fighters for freedom and justice, the late Benazir Bhutto.

 “According to the Pakistani Election Commission, Pakistani opposition parties gained 154 of the 268 parliamentary seats with the late former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto’s Pakistan People’s Party earning a majority of the parliamentary seats and the Pakistan Muslim League-N coming in second place. President Pervez Musharraf’s ruling government, The Pakistan Muslim League- Q came in third.

 "While it was an honor being an official observer of Pakistan’s historic parliamentary elections that took place this February, I fully understand the importance of making sure that this new government works expediently to restore peace to the region. During this period of transition, it is imperative that we examine pressing issues that face Pakistan, a nation that is a friend of the United States and a vital ally in the war on terror.

 “My hope is that this newly elected government will seek unity, redefine the struggle against terrorism, work toward transparent government and become a key resource and asset to the people of Pakistan, as well as to the international community.

 “While these elections mark a great step forward for Pakistan, we must not forget the many Pakistani officials and government officials who risked and lost their lives to see the elections come to fruition. Let us not let their deaths be in vain but valiantly step up to the challenge as a global community to aid Pakistan in establishing a new government that will bring lasting peace to this great nation.”

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