ISLAMABAD:Khawaja Muhammad Asif, the Minister of Defense, apologized profusely to the Vice Chancellors on Friday for using an offensive word in a recent speech. After learning that the Vice Chancellors had sent a letter to the Speaker of the National Assembly, the minister apologized for his inappropriate remarks and asked that they be removed from the record.
Speaking here at the National Assembly, the minister highlighted his close relationships with those who educated him while expressing his profound respect for educators and educational institutions. But he bemoaned the prevalence of corruption in the nation, describing it as an unfortunate accepted norm within society.
He urged the educational institutions to play a role in teaching the avoidance of this pervasive evil. Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif emphasized the esteemed status of educational institutions in the country.
While the main focus of his speech was against corruption in various sectors including the bureaucracy, government, judiciary and other departments, he said. The minister acknowledged that his choice of words had been inappropriate. He apologized if his remarks had hurt the sentiments of the Vice Chancellors.
In response, the National Assembly Speaker commended Minister Asif for his magnanimity in offering an apology. The Speaker highlighted the crucial role of Vice Chancellors in running educational institutions and ensuring a better future. The recent invitation extended to all Vice Chancellors for the Golden Jubilee celebrations demonstrated the government’s seriousness in recognizing the importance of teachers, the Speaker added.
The Speaker urged all lawmakers to exercise caution in their choice of words during their speeches on the floor of the National Assembly. He emphasized that respectful and considerate language was essential in maintaining a conducive and respectful parliamentary environment.
