Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan asserted the nation’s unwavering stance against cross-border terrorism in the wake of the tragic Mir Ali attack in North Waziristan, which claimed the lives of seven army soldiers, including a lieutenant colonel and captain.
During a televised federal cabinet meeting aired on state-run PTV news, Prime Minister Shehbaz emphasized Pakistan’s intolerance towards terrorism originating from neighboring territories. He underscored that any utilization of foreign soil for terrorist activities would not be tolerated.
Following the Mir Ali attack, Pakistani forces conducted intelligence-based operations (IBOs) within border regions in Afghanistan to counter terrorists launching assaults from Afghan soil into Pakistan.
Paying tribute to the valiant soldiers who bravely confronted the terrorists, the Prime Minister hailed the unwavering dedication of Pakistan Army personnel to their country.
Expressing Pakistan’s desire for peaceful coexistence and fraternal relations with neighboring nations, Prime Minister Shehbaz extended an invitation for collaborative efforts to eradicate terrorism and foster trade and brotherly ties.
In addressing economic concerns, the Prime Minister emphasized the imperative of reducing debt burdens, highlighting the detrimental effects of excessive loans on Pakistan’s economy.
The Prime Minister’s remarks coincided with the announcement by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) of a staff-level agreement with Pakistan, marking progress in the final review under the US $3 billion Stand-By Arrangement. Despite this development, Prime Minister Shehbaz stressed the necessity for a new IMF program, citing the lender’s emphasis on expanding the tax base.
