ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reiterated that terrorism will be completely eradicated from Pakistan, stating that hostile forces and extremist elements are trying to obstruct the country’s path to progress and prosperity but will fail.
Addressing a meeting of the federal cabinet, the prime minister said that by the grace of Allah, Pakistan has inflicted a humiliating defeat on its enemies.
He remarked that Pakistan’s eastern neighbor and extremist groups are jointly attempting to derail national development, but stressed that such conspiracies will not succeed.
The prime minister said the nation must remember the tragic incidents in which innocent children, women, and laborers lost their lives, calling them deeply painful events that have plunged the entire country into grief.
He emphasized that the whole nation stands shoulder to shoulder with law enforcement agencies and the armed forces like a “solid wall of lead,” expressing confidence that these sacrifices will ultimately bear fruit and terrorism will be eliminated forever.
Pakistan Played Brotherly Role in Iran Tensions
Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan played a sincere and brotherly role during the recent tensions involving Iran.
He noted that he himself, along with the deputy prime minister and the field marshal, held meetings and telephone conversations with Iranian leadership at various levels to help ease the situation.
He added that Muslim countries including Qatar, Türkiye, Egypt, Oman, and Saudi Arabia are also involved in efforts to find a diplomatic solution, with the aim of removing looming threats and ensuring lasting peace in the region.
Kashmir Solidarity Day to Be Observed Nationwide
The prime minister said that on February 5, the entire nation will observe Kashmir Solidarity Day, expressing unwavering support for the Kashmiri people and their struggle. He said demonstrations of solidarity will be held across the country from Peshawar to Karachi.
He announced that he would personally visit Azad Kashmir with his colleagues to convey a strong message of unity and solidarity on behalf of the Pakistani nation.
Constructive Meeting with KP Chief Minister
Shehbaz Sharif described his recent meeting with the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as positive and productive. He said he assured the chief minister of full federal cooperation regardless of political affiliations, stressing that Pakistan comes first.
He highlighted the sacrifices made by the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the fight against terrorism and recalled that under the 2010 NFC Award, an additional one percent share was allocated to the province to address security challenges, including the establishment of forensic labs, CTD units, Safe City projects, and police training.
The prime minister noted that despite receiving around Rs800 billion under the NFC Award over the years, certain projects such as the Safe City initiative faced delays, but welcomed progress, saying, “Better late than never.”
He added that he directed the planning minister, finance minister, and finance secretary to resolve delayed payments immediately.
Decision Not to Play Against India Taken After Careful Consideration
Referring to the T20 World Cup, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan has taken a clear and well-considered stance not to play against India, emphasizing that sports should remain free from politics.
He said Pakistan believes the sports field is not a political arena and reiterated support for Bangladesh, calling the decision appropriate and principled.
