The session of National Assembly was held at the Parliament House in Islamabad today. Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq chaired the session.

The session began with recitation of verses from Holy Quran by Imam Masjid Al-Nabawi, Dr. Salah bin Mohammad Al-Budair.

Imam Masjid Al-Nabawi, Dr. Salah bin Mohammad Al-Budair and Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Nawaf bin Saeed Ahmad Al-Malki witnessed proceedings of the National Assembly.

Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, amid the thumping of desk by lawmakers, welcomed the visiting dignitary saying that his presence is a matter of pride and spiritual guidance for us. He said Masjid Al-Nabawi holds a special place in the hearts of all the Muslim across the world.

The Speaker also felicitated Arshad Nadeem for winning gold medal at the Paris Olympics and expressed the confidence that he will continue to earn more laurels for the country. He said the success of Arshad Nadeem should serve as an example for the youth.

Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif welcoming D
r. Salah bin Mohammad Al-Budair said his presence is a matter of honor.

Khawaja Asif also congratulated Arshad Nadeem for his record making win at the Olympics. He pointed out that Pakistan has won the gold medal at the event after three decades.

The PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also welcomed the Imam of Masjid Al-Nabawi at the Parliament.

Felicitating Arshad Nadeem, the PPP Chairman said his victory reflects the talent of Pakistani youth in every field. He said steps should be taken for promotion of sports in the country so that Pakistan could win more medals at the world events.

Opposition Leader Omar Ayub said Imam of Masjid Al-Nabawi holds the distinction of leading prayers attended by Muslims across the globe. He was appreciative of the excellent arrangements made by Saudi government at the holiest sites.

The Opposition Leader also extended felicitation to Arshad Nadeem saying that he should be given a grand welcome at his return to home.

In his remarks, Chief of JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur
Rehman said the visit of Imam Masjid Al-Nabawi will give further impetus to Pakistan-Saudi relationship. He said Saudi Arabia is a friendly country of Pakistan and a leader of Islamic world.

Mustafa Kamal of MQM said Saudi Arabia has always stood by Pakistan in difficult times. He highlighted the excellent arrangements made by Saudi Arabia for Hajj.

The National Assembly today unanimously passed a resolution recommending the government to award the highest civil award to gold medalist Arshad Nadeem.

The resolution moved by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar also congratulated Arshad Nadeem for winning the gold medal at the Paris Olympics.

The resolution suggested the government take steps for promotion of sports in the country.

The House has now been prorogued.

Source: Radio Pakistan