PM, COAS discuss national security
NSC announces all-out anti-terror operation
PM, COAS discuss national security
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday chaired a meeting of the National Security Committee (NSC) amid pressing security issues and heightened political tensions between the government and its rival political parties, predominantly the PTI.
The NSC decided to kick start an all-out comprehensive operation against militant outfits to root out the menace of terrorism from the country.
The development came after a two-hour-long NSC meeting — comprising the country’s top security body comprising civil and military leadership, a statement from the PM’s Office said.
Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir, Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Shamshad Mirza, federal ministers for defence, finance and information, and senior military leadership were in attendance.
“The meeting agreed to launch an all-out comprehensive operation — with renewed vigour and determination — with the [help] of the entire nation and the government, which will rid the country of the menace of terrorism,” the statement mentioned.
This all-around and comprehensive operation to eliminate the scourge of terrorism in all its forms from Pakistan will also include efforts at the political, diplomatic, security, economic, and social levels.
A high-level committee has also been formed in this regard and will make recommendations regarding the implementation and limitations within two weeks, the statement said.
The meeting, according to the statement, emphasised comprehensive national security — in which the relief of the people was central. “The forum was informed that the government was taking steps in this regard.”
The meeting acknowledged the sacrifices and efforts of the security forces for providing peace to the nation. The forum reiterated its commitment to continue its activities till terrorism is rooted out.
The committee termed the recent spate of terrorism a result of a soft corner for and reckless policy with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which was completely contrary to public expectations and aspirations.
The terrorists, as a result, were not only allowed to return without hindrance but dangerous TTP terrorists were also released from jails in the name of confidence building, the statement mentioned.
As a result of the facilitation given by these dangerous returning terrorists and various militant organisations present in large numbers in Afghanistan, the militants have disrupted peace and stability in the country.
The committee strongly condemned the efforts to spread foreign-sponsored “poisonous propaganda” against state institutions and their leadership on social media under the guise of “ulterior motives” and said it affects national security.
Reiterating the determination to thwart the nefarious intentions of the enemies of the country, the committee said that all possible efforts would be made to maintain the peace and order achieved by the great sacrifices and continuous efforts of the martyrs.
Meanwhile, Army Chief General Asim Munir and DGISI Lieutenant General Nadeem Ahmed Anjum met Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif. Issues related to national and internal security were discussed in the meeting. The PM lauded the sacrifices of Pakistani armed forces for peace and stability in the country. US Ambassador Donald Bloom also had an important meeting with the Prime Minister. The two leaders discussed the promotion of economic and trade cooperation. The US also discussed the current situation of Pakistan with the Prime Minister. The PM reportedly sought help from the United States regarding an early agreement with the IMF. Agencies
