ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said on Tuesday that the recent sanctions imposed by the US on four Pakistani entities including the state-owned flagship aerospace and defence agency – National Development Complex (NDC) – for allegedly contributing to the country’s ballistic missile programme, were entirely unjustified.
The statement from the prime minister comes after the recent imposition of a ban by the US on NDC situated in Islamabad, along with three companies based in Karachi, as the White House has indicated that it will continue taking action against proliferation and related procurement activities that raise concerns.
The prime minister, while presiding over a meeting of the federal cabinet, said that the sanctions imposed on the country’s NDC and other companies have no justification at all.
Sharif maintained that Pakistan is firmly committed to guaranteeing that its nuclear capabilities are not employed for offensive purposes, as the sole purpose of its nuclear programme is to defend the country. “Pakistan is unequivocally committed to ensuring that its nuclear capabilities are not used for aggressive purposes as our main objective is solely the defense of the country. The nuclear system serves as a means of deterrence and nothing beyond that. There will be no compromise regarding the missile programme,” he said.
He continued that Pakistan’s ballistic missile programme is intended for self-defence in the event of any aggression against the country, adding the Foreign Office had given a detailed response, emphasising that the missile programme is not “solely me or a cabinet member’s responsibility rather it belongs to the entire nation.”
Sharif maintained that the country’s nuclear programme holds greater significance for the nation than their own emotions, asserting that there will be no compromise as the whole nation is united when it comes to its nuclear programme.
He reiterated that Pakistan’s nuclear programme is strictly for defensive purposes and will not be used for any aggression, adding the country will persist in taking robust steps to safeguard its security.
About the ongoing fight against the menace of terrorism, he said that 17 military personnel embraced martyrdom last week while fighting against militants. The cabinet also offered Fateha for the personnel who embraced martyrdom.
He also stated that eight of the attackers were eliminated, and that the army chief had made a personal visit to Wana to motivate the troops.
He emphasised that until terrorism is entirely eradicated, the fruits of efforts being made for the uplift and prosperity of the country cannot reach the nation.
“We are using all resources in collaboration with the provinces to eliminate the menace of terrorism. We will not rest until the terrorist threat is fully crushed,” he maintained.
He noted that the situation regarding terrorism in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa differs slightly, expressing deep sorrow over sectarian killings in which both sides had suffered losses. “Both factions are equipped with weapons in Kurram, but I prefer not to elaborate on the specifics. It is regrettable that during this period of violence, Islamabad was under assault (by PTI). If KP government had directed its attention to this situation, the extent of the damage could have been mitigated,” he lamented.
The prime minister also discussed recent political developments, saying a meeting with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is taking place following National Assembly speaker’s invitation, and a negotiating committee had been formed.
He said that the next meeting of the committee is scheduled for January 2, and it is being done in the best interest of the nation, prioritising collective needs over individual interests.
“Personal preferences should be set out aside. Negotiations will advance with this principle in focus, which will undoubtedly foster peace within the country, promote national unity, and expedite the process of development,” he added.
Sharif said that he does not question the intention of anyone, but if someone thinks otherwise, it will not serve the interests of the country.
He expressed optimism that both the PTI and the government will work together to find a solution that is in the best interest of the country. He said that the government wants to engage in talks with full honesty, but success requires the collaboration of all parties involved, noting the PTI should also act in the best interest of the nation.
Referring to his meetings with Bangladesh’s chief Advisor Dr Muhammad Yunus and presidents of Indonesia and Turkiye on the sidelines of D-8 Summit in Cairo last week, Sharif said that Pakistan-Bangladesh relations were entering a new era as the latter had abolished erstwhile 100% scanning of Pakistan’s export products and special desk at airports for screening Pakistani passport holders.
He said that Pakistan was also reciprocating with positive indicators and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar was scheduled to visit Dhaka in February. “But all these efforts will come to fruition if we promote the national unity and solidarity. This is a good initiative of the National Assembly speaker. We will contribute with sincerity. But it takes two to tango. I hope both parties will play their part to serve the national interests and promote national stability,” he added.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
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