23 November 2007
The Commonwealth’s decision to suspend the membership of Pakistan was "clear and necessary", the PM has said.
In a statement from Uganda, where the PM is attending the Commonwealth Heads of Government (CHOGM) summit, Mr Brown promised to work with Pakistan on taking the "steps necessary" to achieve a return to full membership. Pakistan was suspended from the multi-national group last night due to recent political developments, including the introduction of martial law and the imprisonment of opposition activists.
The PM said:
"Commonwealth Ministers have made their clear and necessary decision on suspension of Pakistan from the Commonwealth. President Musharraf has said that he will take the steps necessary to restore democracy. The Commonwealth is strongly of the view that he must now do so.
"We will work with Pakistan and the Commonwealth to ensure Pakistan returns to its rightful position in the Commonwealth once the remaining steps are taken."
Speaking to journalists later, Mr Brown called on General Musharraf to "remove his uniform to fight an election".
If the Pakistani leadership restored freedom to the press and judiciary, and released all political prisoners, then the suspension would be lifted, the PM added.
- PM calls for Pakistan democracy
- Go to the CHOGM website (new window)
- Go to our International section
Image copyright: Reuters
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