ECP meeting on inviting election observers

The Election Commission of Pakistan held a meeting on inviting international observers during the general elections, the 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Monday.

ECP Secretary Umar Hameed Khan presided over the meeting while senior officials from the ministries of interior, revenue, foreign affairs and other departments concerned attended it.

The meeting was briefed about the preparations to ensure free and fair general elections. International observers from all over the world are welcome and they will be given access  

The secretary directed the foreign ministry to invite the observers and provide them with all-out support. He also directed them to speed up the process of issuing them visas.

The Interior Ministry officials have been asked to take steps to ensure foolproof security of the visiting dignitaries.

He said the commission adopted an open-door policy, extending invitations to international observers from across the globe to oversee Pakistan’s elections.

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) was tasked with exempting international observers, including media representatives, from customs duties for their equipment and essentials while providing necessary support.