Source: Dawn News

ISLAMABAD, Nov 12 (AFP) Pakistan must be hit with phased sanctions targeting its military if President Pervez Musharraf does not end his state of emergency and restore full democracy, Brussels-based International Crisis Group urged Monday .It said sanctions should start with an immediate suspension of military cooperation talks and a review of aid for the armed forces.

It outlined further steps, including suspension by Thursday of military aid that is not meant for counter-terrorism measures if Musharraf does not resign as army chief and take other steps to restore democratic rule. If there are no results within 30 days, the military’s foreign assets should be frozen and senior officials and officers denied travel visas. At the same time, aid for education, health care, relief work and poverty reduction should be stepped up via non-religious organisations. Gareth Evans, who heads the Crisis Group, said the international community, led by the United States, must push Pakistan to end the emergency, restore the constitution, reinstate sacked judges and allow free and fair elections.

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