National unity against terrorism is indispensable; Pakistan can’t afford more tragedies: PM Shehbaz Sharif

QUETTA: Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif has warned that Pakistan’s security could be seriously threatened if the scourge of terrorism is not curbed. He said the security forces showed exemplary bravery in dealing with the recent terrorist attacks, and it was time for all political and military leadership to come together to meet the challenge.
The Prime Minister, while chairing a meeting on law and order in Quetta, expressed deep sorrow over the Jafar Express tragedy. He said that the incident has saddened the entire nation, as for the first time in the history of the country, terrorists took passengers hostage in such a brutal manner. “There were army men in the train along with unarmed civilians, but the terrorists did not even respect the holy month of Ramzan.
Giving details of the successful operation of the security forces, Shehbaz Sharif said that the forces under the leadership of the army chief rescued 339 passengers safely while 33 militants were killed in the decisive action against the terrorists. “This special force unit was created to deal with such terrorist elements, and it proved its mettle in this operation,” he said, referring specifically to the Zarrar company.
The Prime Minister said Pakistan’s overall development is not possible unless there is development and stability in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. “The soldiers and officers of Pakistan Army are sacrificing day and night in the ongoing war against terrorism. So that millions of children of the country can be saved from being orphaned. If we do not honor these sacrifices, we will be held accountable in this world and the next.
Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif strongly criticized those who have a soft corner for the Taliban. “Those who share a cordial relationship with the Taliban and support the release of thousands of terrorists will never be forgiven by the nation,” he said. Some elements are spewing venom against Pakistan under an external agenda, and the neighbouring country also reinforced their propaganda.
“Those who mock at the sacrifices of our forces are anti-national,” he warned. Such a poisonous campaign will not be tolerated under any circumstances.
The Prime Minister also talked about the economic situation of the country, saying that the economy has got stability in the last one year, but development and prosperity will not be possible if law and order is not established. “The credit goes to Asif Zardari, Nawaz Sharif and Yousuf Raza Gilani. Even today, all political leaders should sit together and discuss national issues.
At the end of the meeting, the Prime Minister made it clear that Pakistan could not afford any other major tragedy, and all institutions and political leadership would have to shoulder their responsibilities for the security and stability of the country. “It is time to rise above political differences and think about the future of Pakistan. Together we have to take this fight against terrorism to the final stage.