Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has affirmed that the state remains resolute in its determination to eradicate the scourge of terrorism from its roots.
According to details, the statement came during a meeting of the Steering Committee on Counter-Terrorism and Establishment of the State Authority (Harden the State), held on Thursday. PM Shehbaz presided over the session, which was also attended by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Gen Syed Asim Munir.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, National Security Adviser Lieutenant General Muhammad Asim Malik, Federal Ministers Attaullah Tarar, Azam Nazeer Tarar, Ahsan Iqbal, Rana Sanaullah and Talal Chaudhry. Chief Secretaries and Inspectors-General of all provinces, along with other senior officials, were also present.
During the meeting, the prime minister directed federal and provincial authorities to strengthen coordination and ensure implementation of recommended measures.
In his address, the prime minister reiterated that the international community recognises Pakistan’s successes against terrorist elements. He said that the state has adopted a multidimensional strategy, including ground operations, relevant legislation and the discouragement of extremist ideologies.
He praised the role of the armed forces, saying that the nation holds in high esteem the sacrifices made by soldiers and their families. The prime minister stressed that the people, the armed forces, and law enforcement agencies (LEAs) remain united and steadfast in the fight against terrorism.
He said that the armed forces conducted major operations under Radd-ul-Fasaad and Zarb-e-Azb, confronting terrorists effectively. The premier said that recent operations have drawn international acknowledgment, and that provincial governments, the Intelligence Bureau, the Ministry of Interior and Counter Terrorism Departments have undertaken commendable efforts.
The prime minister said that the government was pursuing an effective strategy to eliminate elements associated with Fitnat-ul-Hind and Fitnatul Khawarij. Joint operations have yielded results against smuggling networks, producing a positive impact on the economy.
He said that only a peaceful and stable state structure can restore investor confidence on the international stage. He added that the government has introduced revolutionary reforms through digitalisation of governance and improvements in the tax system.
The prime minister has made it clear that the repatriation programme for undocumented Afghan nationals is under way and proceeding effectively.
