Mr. Speaker, yesterday the democratic government of Pakistan was overthrown by a military coup. There have been months of internal strife in that country, with complaints of corruption, repression and growing Islamic fundamentalism. In this context we must remember that Pakistan has had several military governments in the past and that its political culture is complex.
The official opposition supports the restoration of the democratic government in Pakistan. The stability of Pakistan, a nuclear power since last year, is crucial to this region.
We understand the concerns of Canadians of Pakistani descent. That said, Canada should not make any rash decision to impose sanctions or talk about suspending anyone from the Commonwealth. The blustering we heard from the foreign affairs ministers yesterday was a typical overreaction.
We oppose sanctions and threats. Instead, why does the government not encourage Pakistan's Asian neighbours, the IMF and the World Bank to put pressure on this military regime?