PM Shehbaz Sharif says national security has not been taken seriously for some time. For sustainable development, Pakistan needs to deal with different forms of terrorism and adhere to the constitution and law. He adds that this country cannot afford to ignore these matters anymore.
The Connection between Crime and Terrorism PM
The highest-ranking official drew attention to the lethal nexus between crime, drugs, smuggling, and terrorism. He also spoke about dangerous links between extremism, religious hatred, and terrorism. He stressed that all institutions must share responsibility in fighting against this evil rather than leaving it to the armed forces alone.
The Role of the Armed Forces PM
He acknowledged unprecedented sacrifices made by Pakistani soldiers in their struggle against terror but cautioned against over-dependence on military might for ensuring national security while terming it as a collective fight where each state institution should play its role accordingly; therefore, he said we need not only soldiers’ involvement but also other departments.
Government Accountability
Prime Minister Sharif criticized past governments for their lack of accountability in addressing terrorism over the last two and a half decades. He stressed the need for active participation from all institutions in the fight against terrorism. He reiterated that while the armed forces have always sacrificed for the country’s safety, leaving all matters to them alone is dangerous.
Provincial Responsibility
He expressed his expectations that provincial governments will contribute to the fight against terrorism. He warned that a soft state cannot gain investors’ confidence, highlighting the economic repercussions of failing to address security issues.
Extraordinary Investment Facilitation Council Meeting
According to Dawn News, Prime Minister Sharif postponed the Special Investment Facilitation Council’s Apex Committee meeting and instead called for a critical National Action Plan’s Apex Committee meeting. This meeting aimed to review the country’s overall security situation.
Security of Foreign Nationals
The Prime Minister’s House meeting included a review of security measures for Chinese nationals and other foreigners in Pakistan. It was attended by all provincial chief ministers, governors, chief secretaries, interior ministers, Army Chief General Asim Munir, and federal ministers.
