The European Parliament,
A. whereas a bill to introduce the sharia (Islamic law) into the country's legal system has been adopted in Pakistan,
B. whereas Islamic law would be above the constitution, which would lead to the gradual 'Islamization' of the legal system and give wide powers of interpretation to Islamic scholars (ulema),
C. whereas Islamic law sanctions punishments which are internationally considered as forms of torture,
D. whereas Pakistan is home to sizeable Christian and Hindu minorities,
E. echoing the concern expressed by various Pakistani organizations, particularly women's organizations, and the views expressed by the Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Christian churches,
F. having regard to the adverse consequences that the application of this law may have on artistic and cultural exhibitions and figurative art in particular,
G. noting the assurances by Pakistan's Prime Minister to the minorities that their rights (including the freedom of faith and equal opportunities) will continue to be fully protected;
H. reiterating its feelings of friendship towards Pakistan and its attachment to the harmonious co-existence of all religious faiths, within a framework of tolerance, democracy and respect for human rights,
1. Expresses its deep concern over the introduction of Islamic law and the effects this could have on minorities, human rights, and in particular women's rights, the democratic future of Pakistan and its position in the international community;
2. Respectfully urges the Pakistani authorities, and in particular the National Assembly, to do everything within their power to review the decision on the introduction of the sharia into their legal system;
3. Expresses the hope that, should it nevertheless be introduced, the sharia will continue to uphold the rights of the minorities;
4. Calls on the Commission and EPC to express the above concerns to the Pakistani authorities;
5. Instructs its President to forward this resolution to the Commission, the Council, EPC and the Pakistani Government.
