Moving ahead: Panamagate issue should end once and for all, says Sherpao

Says CPEC is expected to be complete package to develop remote areas

HARIPUR: The Panamagate issue has created a sense of political and economic inactivity across the country. As a result, the government should finalise the terms of reference (ToRs) for the enquiry commission and put an end to the issue. Qaumi Watan Party Chairperson Aftab Ahmed Sherpao shared these views at a public gathering in Hattar, Haripur  on Sunday.

According to a press release, Sherpao said it is mandatory for the government to take the opposition into confidence and make a decision regarding an independent commission to probe the Panama issue.

Sherpao also voiced his concerns over the US House of Representatives’ decision to block aid worth $450 million to Pakistan, saying Pakistan has gone through human and financial losses during militancy.



He added suspension of the aid might affect the relations between United States and Pakistan.

About the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, Sherpao said the project does not simply symbolise the construction of a road. On the contrary, CPEC is expected to be “a complete package” to develop remote areas – especially in K-P and Fata – and connect them with the rest of the country.

“Due to the strategic position of Hazara Division, the route would definitely pass through this belt, but construction of mere a road is not acceptable to us,”
the press release quoted him as saying.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 23^rd, 2016.