Terrorism returned due to some past mistakes: PM Shehbaz

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated that terrorism had been eradicated, but due to some mistakes, it has returned.

He made these remarks while addressing the National Youth Convention in Islamabad, where Army Chief General Asim Munir was also present.

The prime minister emphasised that national hero Arshad Nadeem has shown that no matter how difficult the situation, if the nation is determined to endure hardships, success will follow.

He highlighted that the key to the country’s development lies in the hands of the youth. By equipping them with modern knowledge, they can drive progress and prosperity.

Reflecting on Pakistan’s 77-year journey, the prime minister acknowledged both successes and failures. He noted that the 1973 Constitution is the foundation that politically and economically connects Pakistan. He proudly mentioned that Pakistan became the first Islamic country to achieve nuclear power status.

However, he expressed regret that after burying the evil of terrorism following the loss of 70,000 lives in the 2010 war, the country has recently seen its resurgence due to some mistakes.

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He pointed out that Pakistan not only sacrificed lives but also suffered an economic loss of $150 billion in this fight, while the powers that urged Pakistan to combat terrorism provided only $20 billion in aid. He emphasised the strong role of defence institutions in this battle.

The prime minister also stressed the importance of agriculture in Pakistan, warning that failure to utilise it properly could have dire consequences.

He lamented that there was a time when PIA was a national asset, but today it faces privatisation. He cited Pakistan’s five-year development plan, which South Korea followed to achieve progress.

He reiterated that the youth are the nation’s greatest asset and that dedicating resources from development funds to their growth will be worthwhile. He mentioned that 40 percent of the loan will be allocated to SMEs to create employment opportunities.

Addressing the issue of East Pakistan, he recalled the individual who led the movement against Pakistan and declared that the two-nation theory had sunk in the Indian Ocean. He remarked on the current situation of that person’s statues in Bangladesh, which serves as a lesson for all.

He acknowledged that electricity remains a challenge for ordinary citizens, noting that the Punjab government recently provided two months of relief to citizens from its own resources.

In conclusion, Sharif called for unity among politicians to serve the country together, while urging constitutional institutions to work within their respective spheres. He expressed his commitment to working alongside the chief of army staff for the noble cause of Pakistan’s development.