Ms. Mary Cummins, Team Leader of Mustehkam Parlimaan (MuP), called on
Chairman Senate of Pakistan, Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, at the Parliament House,
Islamabad, on a farewell visit marking the culmination of her tenure.
During the meeting, Ms. Cummins presented a comprehensive overview of the
five-year strategic framework of the Mustehkam Parlimaan (MuP) programme,
highlighting its key achievements, meaningful initiatives, and long-term objectives aimed
at strengthening parliamentary institutions in Pakistan. She underscored MuP’s
continued efforts to enhance legislative processes, build institutional capacity of
Members of Parliament and parliamentary staff, and improve oversight and governance
mechanisms through constructive collaboration and support of the European Union.
The Chairman Senate commended the contributions of MuP toward institutional
development and democratic consolidation in Pakistan. He observed that a strong,
transparent, and responsive Parliament remains the cornerstone of sustainable
democracy. Reaffirming his vision, he emphasized the importance of reinforcing
democratic norms, strengthening accountability frameworks, and ensuring meaningful
public engagement in legislative affairs.
Highlighting ongoing institutional reforms, the Chairman shared that the Senate
of Pakistan is pioneering forward-looking initiatives in the region, including the
development of an Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based system to facilitate legislators’
access to real-time information. He noted that the integration of modern technology into
parliamentary functions would significantly enhance legislative efficiency, informed
decision-making, and oversight of public initiatives.
Describing Parliament as the “mother institution” of the state, the Chairman
reiterated that sustainable national development must be anchored in accountability,
transparency, and inclusive governance. He expressed appreciation for the constructive
partnership between the Senate of Pakistan and international development partners
committed to strengthening parliamentary democracy.
Advisor to the Chairman Senate on Special Initiatives/PDU, Ms. Rida Qazi, was
also present during the meeting.
