ISLAMABAD: Former Federal Minister and Senator Faisal Vawda on Tuesday accused the United States of exploiting Pakistan’s strategic importance while failing to act as a genuine partner, urging the government to adopt a firm stance against “external interference.”
Speaking at a press conference at the National Press Club, Islamabad, Vawda said Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Imran Khan is surrounded by opportunists, claiming that no one is truly working to secure his release.
Vawda criticised the November 24 protest call, describing it as a drama and a “bubble that will burst.” He suggested that the protest is merely a face-saving attempt by PTI leaders, who are allegedly negotiating personal relief deals at the expense of the party’s cause.
“This is Imran Khan’s last call, not the Establishment’s,” Vawda remarked, adding that KP resources are being misused for these protests while the party faces internal divisions even in its stronghold of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He accused PTI leadership of exploiting Khan’s imprisonment to gain personal benefits.
Addressing the broader geopolitical landscape, Vawdacriticised US interference in Pakistan’s “internal matters” while ignoring grave human rights violations in Palestine, Kashmir, and the case of DrAafiaSiddiqui. “The US suddenly champions human rights when it comes to Imran Khan but remains silent on other global injustices,” he said.
Vawda stated that any protest on November 24 would not affect Imran Khan’s legal troubles, as the PTI founder faces indictment on November 25. He also pointed out the lack of unity within the party, referring to various internal factions in KP.
Criticising past and present US policies, Vawda accused Washington of exploiting Pakistan’s strategic importance while failing to engage as a sincere partner. He urged the government to adopt a firm stance against “external interference,” saying, “We will eat grass but won’t compromise on our sovereignty.”
The senator called on the parliament to address US meddling directly, emphasising the need for self-respect in Pakistan’s foreign policy.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024
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