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Commonwealth Secretariat press release

Commonwealth Secretary-General expresses deep concern at developments in Pakistan*

12 October 1999

Commonwealth Secretary-General Chief Emeka Anyaoku today issued the following statement in response to developments in Pakistan*:

I am deeply concerned at the reports emanating from Islamabad that constitutional rule in Pakistan* may be under threat. While we are waiting for a clearer picture to emerge, an unconstitutional overthrow of a democratically elected government would be in contravention of the Commonwealth's fundamental political values, and would therefore be totally unacceptable to the Commonwealth. Such a development would inevitably invite Pakistan*'s suspension from the councils of the Commonwealth. I strongly urge those concerned to desist from any action against constitutional rule and democracy in Pakistan* ... I of course stand ready to be of help in any practicable way in addressing the present situation.

*Following a military coup in October 1999, Pakistan has been suspended from the councils of the Commonwealth

Issued by the Information and Public Affairs Division,
Commonwealth Secretariat,
Marlborough House,
Pall Mall,
London SW1Y 5HX,
United Kingdom.
Tel: 0207-839 3411;
Fax: 0207-839 9081;
Telex: 27678

99/56 12 October, 1999
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ISSUED BY THE COMMUNICATIONS AND PUBLIC AFFAIRS DIVISION
Commonwealth Secretariat Marlborough House Pall Mall London SW1Y 5HX United Kingdom
Tel: +44 (0)20 7747 6385/6 Fax: +44 (0)20 7839 9081
Email: info@commonwealth.int