Pakistan PM Vows to Crush Terrorism
Terrorism Declared Pakistan’s Biggest Challenge
In a recent meeting at the Prime Minister House in Islamabad, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif addressed the increasing threat of terrorism in Pakistan. The Apex Committee of the National Action Plan (NAP), comprising chief ministers, military leaders including Army Chief General Asim Munir, intelligence heads, and top officials, convened to discuss the surge in terror incidents and strategies to counter them. The focus keyword “terrorism in Pakistan” was highlighted throughout the session as the primary concern impacting national security and progress.
Sharif’s Strong Stance Against Terrorism
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described terrorism in Pakistan as the most significant challenge the nation faces. He reiterated that the country’s peace, progress, and economic development hinge on defeating terrorist elements. Sharif stressed, “We have no other choice but to crush the terrorist elements for peace and progress of the country.” He pointed out that economic stability and national reconciliation are impossible without tackling this threat head-on.
Collective Responsibility Emphasized by General Munir
Army Chief General Asim Munir emphasized the shared duty of all citizens in the fight against terrorism in Pakistan. According to the Express Tribune, although no formal statement was issued, General Munir remarked, “In the war against terrorism, every Pakistani is a soldier — some in uniform, others without.” He highlighted that ensuring security, both internally and externally, is the military’s constitutional obligation. Munir’s words underlined the need for national unity to confront the escalating threat of terrorism.
The Question of Rising Terrorism
Prime Minister Sharif raised concerns over the resurgence of terrorism in Pakistan after 2018, a period when it had been significantly reduced. He questioned why terrorist activities have seen a spike and stressed the importance of focusing on national peace and development over political protests. The timing of the speech coincided with a planned protest by former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), adding a layer of political tension to the situation.
Economic Progress Tied to Security
Shehbaz Sharif also spoke about the economic advancements Pakistan has made, noting improvements such as the stock market’s rise to over 95,000 points, reduced inflation rates, and a decrease in the interest rate from 22% to 15%. He called on the nation’s elite to contribute more in taxes, asserting that sacrifices are essential for sustained economic growth. Sharif acknowledged support from China, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, which facilitated a $7 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The provincial governments and institutions were credited for their roles in improving the economic landscape, which is intrinsically linked to tackling terrorism in Pakistan.
Insights from Defence Minister Khawaja Asif
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif highlighted that the committee’s main discussions centered around the surge in terrorism in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Karachi, where attacks have targeted Chinese nationals. He revealed that coordination committees have been established to strengthen cooperation in combating terrorism. Asif also recounted that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur voiced concerns over Imran Khan’s imprisonment and restrictions on PTI’s ability to hold rallies. However, Gandapur’s main focus was reportedly on addressing militancy in his province.
National Action Plan and Apex Committee’s Role
The Apex Committee was formed as part of the National Action Plan (NAP) devised in 2014 to counteract terrorism in Pakistan. It unites civilian and military leadership to discuss strategies and implement measures against terrorist threats. The latest meeting reiterated the government’s commitment to this collaborative approach, with Sharif urging that collective action is essential for success.
Call to Action for Peace and Unity
Prime Minister Sharif’s final message was clear: for Pakistan to thrive, the nation must prioritize the fight against terrorism in Pakistan. He emphasized the importance of national solidarity and a collective commitment to peace, urging all citizens to align their efforts for the country’s safety and prosperity.
Disclaimer: This article summarizes recent statements and events related to terrorism in Pakistan and efforts by the government and military to address this issue. For further updates, please refer to official government and news sources.