Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to eliminate terrorism. He said hostile elements and khawarij were attempting to block national development. However, he stressed that the nation and armed forces would defeat them.
Strong Message from Federal Cabinet Meeting
Addressing a federal cabinet meeting, the prime minister said terrorists linked to Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan carried out recent attacks in Balochistan. He added that security forces responded decisively and forcefully.
He stated that retaliatory operations over the last three to four days eliminated around 200 militants. He praised the swift response of security forces across affected areas.
Martyrdoms and Civilian Losses
The prime minister said 17 security personnel and 31 civilians were martyred in the attacks. He added that five women and children lost their lives in Gwadar. He expressed deep grief over the loss of innocent lives.
Referring to “Maarka-e-Haq,” he said the enemy had been defeated. He strongly condemned attacks on unarmed civilians. He described the perpetrators as inhuman and stone-hearted.
Nation United Against Terrorism
Prime Minister Shehbaz said the sacrifices of martyrs would not go in vain. He reaffirmed that terrorism would be eradicated from Pakistan. He said the nation stood united like a wall of lead against terrorism.
He also assured that the state would take responsibility for the welfare and upbringing of martyrs’ children. He said the nation would always remember the sacrifices of its great sons.
Regional and National Solidarity
The prime minister reiterated that Pakistan’s eastern neighbour and khawarij aimed to obstruct progress and prosperity. He said Pakistan would continue to show solidarity with the people of Kashmir.
He also informed the cabinet about his meeting with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi. He described the discussion as constructive. He said the federal government would fully cooperate with the province.
Foreign Policy and Sports Diplomacy
On sports diplomacy, the prime minister said Pakistan adopted a clear stance during the T20 World Cup. He said Pakistan decided not to play a bilateral match against India in solidarity with Bangladesh. He emphasized that politics should not mix with sports.
He also said Pakistan agreed with Kazakhstan on a one billion dollar trade target. He added that the Kazakh president invited him for an official visit. He expressed optimism about stronger economic ties.
The prime minister said Uzbekistan’s president was arriving in Pakistan soon. He added that both countries remained committed to strengthening relations.
Regional Peace Efforts
Referring to tensions involving Iran and the United States, the prime minister said Pakistan played a responsible and brotherly role. He said dialogue and de-escalation remained Pakistan’s priority.
He added that Qatar, Turkiye, Egypt, Oman, and Saudi Arabia were also supporting diplomatic efforts.
Cabinet Decisions Approved
An official statement said the cabinet approved decisions of key committees in principle. The meeting began with prayers for martyrs and national unity. The prime minister reaffirmed commitment to federal-provincial coordination and national development.
