Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif declared on Friday that the government is resolute in its mission to eliminate the outlawed Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) for the sake of Pakistan’s socio-economic advancement.
Recently, Pakistan has seen a rise in terror incidents, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, following the collapse of a tentative ceasefire with the TTP. In 2024, the country faced its most violent year in a decade, with 444 terror attacks leading to the deaths of 685 security personnel. Civilian and security forces’ combined losses reached 1,612 fatalities, a stark 63% of the total fatalities last year, and a significant 73% increase from the 934 outlaws killed. This marked the highest number of casualties in nine years, with an average of seven deaths per day.
During a National Action Plan Apex Committee meeting, PM Shehbaz emphasized, “The progress and prosperity of Pakistan we aim for can only be achieved by enhancing law and order nationwide and by completely annihilating the TTP.” He called for a unified and comprehensive strategy involving the federal government, regional governments, and security forces to tackle these issues.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the presence of terrorist elements within Pakistan, specifically in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, and mentioned the support these groups receive from foreign entities. He highlighted the government’s response to recent border clashes with Afghan forces, describing it as “fitting.”
In July, the government officially labeled TTP as ‘Fitna al Khawarij’, mandating that all institutions refer to these terrorists as ‘khariji’ or outcasts.
Additionally, PM Shehbaz addressed the challenge posed by digital misinformation, which he sees as a critical threat to national integrity and the fight against terrorism. “Misinformation on social media is distorting facts and damaging our national image. If we fail to address this, our anti-terrorism efforts will be in vain,” he stated, expressing optimism about overcoming these digital challenges.
The Prime Minister also celebrated Pakistan’s new role as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. The meeting was attended by key figures including Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, members of the federal cabinet, provincial chief ministers, and military leaders.
In previous remarks at the Special Investment Facilitation Council meeting, he linked economic growth directly to political stability and peace, underscoring that without effectively dealing with terrorism, economic progress would be stymied.
April 24, 2025 9:02 am
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