ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari will address the joint session of the parliament today to kick start the new parliamentary year.
This will be the second address of the current president to the 16th National Assembly. He addressed the lower house on April 18, 2024, at the start of its first parliamentary year.
National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq and Chairman Senate Yousaf Raza Gillani will formally receive the president upon his arrival at Parliament House.
Strict security measures have been implemented, including a complete ban on guest entry into the building.
Invitations have been extended to key dignitaries, including the heads of the armed forces, foreign ambassadors, governors, and provincial chief ministers.
President Zardari’s speech is expected to cover foreign affairs, political developments, economic challenges, and public welfare initiatives. He is also likely to highlight the achievements of the government and military institutions.
This will be the second address of the current president to the 16th National Assembly. He addressed the lower house on April 18 of 2024, at the start of its first parliamentary year.
President Zardari’s address is expected to highlight one year performance of the government and give a roadmap and policy direction for the coming year.
This will be Zardari’s eighth address to parliament as President. During his first term as the president between 2008 and 2013, he addressed joint parliamentary sessions six times.
Meanwhile, the opposition has announced a protest during the address.
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has returned from Umrah, and sources suggest efforts are underway to coordinate opposition action.
Former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser has reportedly conveyed a message from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder, urging JUI-F to join the protest.
