The Church of Scotland has resolutely rejected the 'war on terror' language being used in some political quarters in the ongoing discussions on the future of Pakistan.
The Kirk is instead calling for a "focus on democracy" in Pakistan, which remains unstable after the assassination of former prime minister and leader of the opposition Benazir Bhutto last week.
In a statement issued on New Year's Eve, the Church of Scotland rejected the 'war on terror' discourse, stressing that the priority for Pakistan now must be the restoration of credible democratic institutions and the establishment of an independent judiciary.
Morag Mylne, the convener of the Kirk's Church & Society Council, said: "Given the nature of Benazir Bhutto's assassination, in some ways it is unsurprising that discussion has focussed on Pakistan's role in the 'war on terror'.
"Real security, though, comes through justice, peace and understanding. We have to remember that the most important element in Pakistan's future must be the reestablishment of a political and judicial system that is capable of working toward justice and peace for all Pakistanis."
A staff representative from the Church of Scotland will travel to Pakistan in January to work with a local partner church in further developing the relationship between the Church of Scotland and Church of Pakstan.
The Rev Colin Renwick, who is convener of the Church of Scotland World Mission Council, said: "The Church of Scotland has many links in Pakistan, having played a historically important role in Christian mission in that country.
"At this difficult time, what our partner churches are telling us is that their country urgently needs to see the establishment of functioning civic institutions and an end to legal discrimination against the Christian minority."
The World Mission Council has provided financial assistance to the campaign to abolish discriminatory laws, and Rev Renwick affirmed the council's continued support of the campaign.
Ms Mylne concluded: "It is only through the restoration of meaningful democracy that a legitimate government will be able to tackle the challenges that face Pakistan.
"As such, that must remain the priority for all Pakistanis - whatever their faith - as well as being the constant focus of the international community."
