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Commonwealth tightens screws on Pak

The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting today delivered yet another blow to the military regime of Pakistan when it categorically stated that it still recognised Nawaz Sharief as the prime minister.

Condemning the unconstitutional overthrow of the democratically elected government in Pakistan the Commonwealth declaration which was adopted after four days of intense debate said ''no legitimacy should be accorded to the military regime.''

It decided to take harsh measures including the imposition of sanctions against Pakistan if the military regime did not take immediate steps to restore democracy.

Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee told mediapersons at the end of the four-day summit that some time has been given to the Pakistani military regime and ''if it does not return to constitutionality, further steps including imposition of sanctions will be taken.''

This tough stand against Pakistan was taken after leaders from various countries favoured stringent measures against the military regime.

Vajpayee said the decision to suspend Pakistan was a collective victory of the Commonwealth which was determined to uphold the rule of law and democratic principles.

He added that India ''does not claim any exclusive credit for it [the decision].''

The Commonwealth has enough teeth but it is using it only now, he said in reply to another question.

The leaders put their seal on the recommendation of the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group for the suspension of Pakistan from its councils pending the restoration of democracy.

The leaders who held intense discussion on the Pakistan issue also urged the military regime to release Sharief who is facing charges of treason.

UNI

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