ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to eradicating terrorism from the country, declaring that the state would not rest until the menace is completely eliminated.
Chairing a high-level review meeting of the Steering Committee on Counter-Terrorism and Establishment of the State Writ (Harden the State), the premier said Pakistan’s resolve is firm and recognised globally. “The state of Pakistan is determined to root out the scourge of terrorism, and the world acknowledges our successful operations against terrorists,” he asserted.
The meeting, held in Islamabad, was attended by top civil and military leadership including Deputy Prime Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, National Security Adviser Lieutenant General Muhammad Asim Malik, and federal ministers, including Attaullah Tarar and Azam Nazir Tarar. Provincial chief secretaries, inspector generals, and other high-ranking officials were also present.
PM Shehbaz highlighted that Pakistan is employing a multi-dimensional strategy in its war on terror. “We have combined ground operations with legislative reforms, strategic public communication, and a strong narrative against extremist ideologies,” he said.
He also lauded the courage and sacrifices made by the security forces. “The role of our brave armed forces in countering terrorism is both commendable and historic. The entire nation is proud of those who laid down their lives to protect our future,” he stated. He emphasized the collective effort of law enforcement agencies, intelligence services, and provincial departments in achieving recent successes.
The prime minister made special mention of the Punjab Counter-Terrorism Department and the Ministry of Interior for their “remarkable and effective” operations. He noted that Pakistan’s recent victories in operations like Radd-ul-Fasaad, Zarb-e-Azb, and the “historic Marka-e-Haq” are proof of the nation’s capability and commitment.
In addition to counterterrorism, PM Shehbaz pointed to the positive outcomes of anti-smuggling operations, stressing that these efforts have contributed to stabilizing the economy. “Preventing smuggling has had a significant impact on economic indicators,” he noted, adding that initiatives like system digitization and tax reform have improved investor confidence.
He further stated that the repatriation of undocumented Afghan nationals was progressing in line with international legal norms.
“Institutional cooperation and a joint national strategy are vital for long-term peace and economic prosperity,” the premier concluded.
