PM chairs high-level meeting on counter-terrorism, vows to eradicate menace

Islamabad
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday chaired a crucial meeting of the steering committee on counter-terrorism and strengthening state sovereignty, reaffirming Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to eliminate terrorism.
The meeting reviewed progress on the government’s comprehensive strategy against terrorism, with the prime minister stating that Pakistan has adopted a multi-pronged approach involving decisive military operations, legal reforms, counter-extremism measures, and public engagement. He emphasized that the world has acknowledged Pakistan’s successful counter-terrorism campaigns.
The prime minister directed authorities to enhance coordination between federal and provincial governments for effective implementation of the committee’s recommendations. He paid glowing tribute to the armed forces, law enforcement agencies, and intelligence personnel for their sacrifices in the war against terrorism, saying the entire nation stands united behind them.
Highlighting recent successes, PM Shehbaz noted that operations like Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasaad had decisively weakened terrorist networks, while the historic “Ma’araka-e-Haq” (Battle of Truth) had been recognized globally as Pakistan’s victory against terrorism.
The meeting also discussed measures against smuggling, with the prime minister noting that recent crackdowns had yielded positive economic impacts. He stressed that a terrorism-free, stable Pakistan would restore international investors’ confidence, pointing to record gains at the Pakistan Stock Exchange and improved global ratings as signs of economic recovery.
The prime minister said Pakistan was working on a robust strategy to counter hostile elements, including what he described as “mischievous Indian designs” and extremist groups. He also mentioned that the repatriation of illegally residing Afghans was being carried out in accordance with international laws.
The meeting was attended by Deputy PM Ishaq Dar, Filed Marshal Syed Asim Munir, National Security Adviser Lt. Gen. Muhammad Asim Malik, federal ministers, provincial chief secretaries, inspectors general of police, and other senior officials.