ISLAMABAD: The joint session of the parliament on Monday resumed discussion on national issues, including law and order and terrorism, economic policy, Jammu and Kashmir issue, respect for national institutions, China-Pakistan-Economic-Corridor, population explosion, Climate Change impact and foreign policy of the country.

PTI Senators are also taking part in the proceedings of the House for the first time since the convening of the Joint Sitting of the Parliament. Participating in the discussion, PTI leader Shahzad Wasim called for urgent elections in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as per the spirit of the constitution. He criticized the Election Commission of Pakistan’s decision to delay elections in Punjab.

Media persons present in the parliament’s press gallery staged walk-out to protest against attacks on journalists in the Islamabad Judicial Complex, arrest of Siddique Jan, and non-payment of salaries to media workers by the media houses.

Responding to points raised by the media persons, Speaker National Assembly Raja Pervaiz Ashraf directed the ministry of Interior to look into the matter of attacks on journalists. He further said that the issue of non-payment of salaries will be taken up in the standing committee concerned.

Minister for Communication Maulana Asad Mahmood said the coalition government is committed to serve the nation and is taking all possible measures to provide relief to masses. He said some elements are spreading chaos and anarchy in the country.

He said foreign elements like Brad Sherman and Zalmay Khalilzad are tweeting in favour of PTI Chairman Imran Khan. He, however, made it clear that we will not allow foreign agents to harm Pakistan.

Talking about the economic situation in the country, the Minister said Imran Khan pushed Pakistan into an economic quagmire and the coalition government is striving hard to bring financial stability to the country. He also dispelled the impression that the coalition parties are running away from elections. The Joint Sitting has been adjourned to meet again on April 10 at 11:00 am.