Prime Minister Sharif Announces Resolute Stance Against Terrorism

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government’s resolve to eliminate terrorism, stating that hostile elements and “khawarij” were trying to hinder Pakistan’s development. During his address to the federal cabinet meeting, he highlighted security forces’ response to attacks in Balochistan carried out by terrorists linked to Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna al-Hindustan.

The PM reported that over the past three to four days, around 200 militants were killed during retaliatory operations. He noted that 17 security personnel and 31 civilians, including five women and children in Gwadar, had been martyred. Referring to “Maarka-e-Haq,” he condemned attacks on unarmed civilians as the work of “stone-hearted” perpetrators.

Shehbaz said the sacrifices of these martyrs would not go to waste, and that terrorism would be eliminated from the country. He emphasized that the nation stood united like a “wall of lead” against terrorism and expressed grief over the deaths of workers and children. The prime minister vowed to take responsibility for the welfare and upbringing of the children of martyred individuals and ensure the nation remembered their sacrifices.

The PM also reaffirmed that Pakistan’s “eastern neighbor” and the khawarij were obstructing the country’s path to development and prosperity, while expressing solidarity with people in Kashmir. He informed the cabinet about his meeting with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, noting a constructive discussion where the federal government would fully cooperate with the province.

On sports diplomacy, Shehbaz highlighted Pakistan’s decision not to play a bilateral match against India during the T20 World Cup in solidarity with Bangladesh. He stressed that politics should remain separate from sports. The prime minister also announced an agreement for $1 billion in trade between Pakistan and Kazakhstan, expressing hope that economic ties would grow rapidly.

Shehbaz further mentioned that Uzbekistan’s president was arriving in Pakistan on Thursday and both sides were committed to strengthening relations. Regarding recent tensions involving Iran and the United States, he stated that Pakistan had played a “brotherly” and responsible role through dialogue efforts with Iran’s leaders, including via meetings with Iranian officials.

The cabinet meeting also approved decisions taken by various committees without further elaboration. The prime minister conveyed his government’s commitment to eradicating terrorism and solidarity with Kashmiris on Kashmir Solidarity Day. He began the meeting with prayers for those who had passed away. Shehbaz reiterated the government’s commitment to federal-provincial coordination for national development, briefed the cabinet about its diplomatic engagements, including visits from Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan leaders, and highlighted ongoing efforts towards regional peace and stability through dialogue.