Pakistan is important to Commonwealth: Don Mckinnon

Islamabad, Feb 22 : Welcoming the conduct of fair and peaceful general elections on February 18, Commonwealth Secretary General Don McKinnon has said that Pakistan is important to the Commonwealth.

"The commonwealth is keen to engage with the new government once its is formed, including a ministerial level as Pakistan is important to the Commonwealth and we look forward to it once again playing its full role in association once democracy is fully restored. We remain ready to assist towards the end," McKinnon said.

He also congratulated the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on the conduct of fair and peaceful elections.

"These elections are an important step in Pakistan's journey towards full democracy, the people of Pakistan have spoken and their voice must be heard and respected," McKinnon said in a message to ECP Secretary Kanwar Muhammad Dilshad.

McKinnon also expressed hope that the democratic process would now be permitted to play itself out fully, with the formation of a new government in accordance with constitutional procedures, The News reported.

ANI