President Asif Ali Zardari today accused the “ungrateful Taliban regime” of engaging in terrorist acts against Pakistan through TTP militants, as both he and the prime minister affirmed that the state will not compromise on its territorial integrity and will meet any aggression with a decisive response.
In a strongly worded statement, the President labelled the group “criminal and cowardly,” stating it had challenged Pakistan”s integrity by crossing the international border. He noted that for the past five years, the Taliban regime has allegedly conducted terrorist acts against its “benefactor Pakistan” via TTP terrorists.
President Zardari added that Pakistan, acting as a responsible state, had pursued diplomatic channels and made earnest efforts with the assistance of brotherly nations to moderate the “criminal gang,” but lamented that “no positive progress could be made.”
He cautioned that no one should misinterpret the situation and believe Pakistan could be coerced through pressure or intimidation, emphasising that the nation and its “brave armed forces stand like a rock wall” to safeguard the country”s integrity.
While clarifying that Pakistan does not seek confrontation, the President asserted that if the nation”s desire for peace is perceived as weakness, it would be met with a “strong response.” He affirmed that the military”s response capability is “comprehensive, timely and decisive,” with the full capacity to thwart any hostile intentions.
Echoing these sentiments, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif stated that the Pakistani people and the armed forces remain perpetually prepared to protect the country”s security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, adding they are fully capable of defeating any aggressive designs.
The prime minister highlighted that under the leadership of the “Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir,” the military is performing its duties with national spirit. He described the armed forces as being equipped with professional capabilities, high-quality training, and an effective defensive strategy, making them proficient in handling any internal or external challenge.
Mr Sharif clarified that while Pakistan has consistently promoted peace, the nation’s integrity will not be compromised under any circumstances. He asserted that the armed forces would resolutely confront any aggression, concluding that the entire nation stands in solidarity with them.