ISLAMABAD – President Asif Ali Zardari expressed profound gratitude on Sunday, thanking world leaders for their unequivocal show of solidarity following the recent terrorist attack in Islamabad. In a statement released from Islamabad’s presidential office, he emphasized Pakistan’s deep appreciation for the messages of sympathy and support received globally.
Zardari noted that these gestures have provided much-needed comfort to the people of Pakistan during this tumultuous period. He affirmed that these messages reaffirm Pakistan’s position on the critical issue of terrorism as a shared responsibility among nations and a universal struggle. The president stressed that Pakistan has consistently maintained that combating terrorism cannot be achieved by any single country alone.
In his address, Zardari highlighted that Pakistan’s experience demonstrated how allowing terrorists safe haven across international borders often leads to devastating consequences for innocent civilians worldwide. He underscored the actions of certain neighboring countries, which he characterized as “partners in crime,” supporting terrorist elements from their soil while also financing and equipping them with lethal means.
Drawing attention to Afghanistan, Zardari emphasized that Pakistan’s eastern neighbor has actively assisted the Taliban regime in perpetuating conditions similar or even worse than those preceding 9/11. The president condemned this support as posing a significant threat not only to Pakistan but to regional and global peace. He declared his country’s deep gratitude for the compassion and support received from the international community during this challenging time.
The statement was particularly poignant, coming just days after another attack in Islamabad underscored the ongoing threat of terrorism within the city’s borders. Zardari urged continued solidarity from the world leaders to combat this menace that threatens not only Pakistan but the global community at large.