ISLAMABAD: Islamabad is hosting female lawmakers from 12 countries at a conference on the role of women in strengthening democracy.

Pakistanis Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's daughter opened the three-day gathering on Monday.

Maryam Nawaz saluted the Women's Parliamentary Caucus in Pakistan for taking the initiative for the venue. She says it's high time to work for women's empowerment for the betterment and development of societies.

Addressing the Conference, Maryam Nawaz Sharif said Women Parliamentary Caucus is playing an important role for empowerment of women in the country.

Maryam Nawaz said Pakistan today has remarkable individuals who have done a great job in different fields like education.

Meanwhile, addressing the conference, Minister of State for Interior Baligh-ur-Rehman said the government stands committed to empower women.

He said the women need to be encouraged, educated and made aware of their role in countering terrorism as they have the most crucial role to play in bringing up new generations.

The Conference was also attended by delegates from Turkey, Jordan, Iraq and Sri Lanka which shared their views about the role women are playing and can play in promoting peaceful and just societies.

The speakers also underscored the influential role media can play in combating extremism and empowering women.

Along with those from Pakistan, women lawmakers from Iran, Iraq, Turkey, Jordan, Australia, Romania, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Jordan, Maldives, Indonesia and Nepal are attending the event.

Women make up over half of the population in Pakistan and though they have some rights, they are still hugely discriminated against.

Much of this Islamic society still believes women should not work but stay confined to the home. -AP/Radio Pakistan