National Action Plan: Govt committed to eliminating terror, says Nisar

In meeting with UK envoy, minister says Islamabad to play its role for peace

ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Chaudhary Nisar Ali Khan said on Saturday that the National Action Plan (NAP) was a manifestation of the firm resolve of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz government to root out the menace of militancy and extremism from the country.     

Talking to the UK high commissioner, Philip Barton, he said Pakistan would continue to play its role for peace in the region and beyond. Matters like Pak-UK bilateral relations, war against extremism, strengthening of counterterror cooperation, capacity enhancement of the law-enforcement agencies and regional situation were discussed during the meeting, according to a press release.

The minister said Pakistan has abiding interest in peace and prosperity of the neighbouring country and would continue to assist Afghan institutions in their capacity enhancement. Sharing the borders, Pakistan and Afghanistan also share common issues and challenges which can only be addressed through greater cooperation and collaboration. He added that the level of cooperation between Pakistan and Afghanistan was never as good as it was today.

While appreciating UK support to Pakistan in various areas, the minister observed that further strengthening our cooperation in capacity building of law-enforcement and investigating agencies and the fight against extremists will go a long way towards achieving our shared goal of ensuring lasting peace and sustainable development in the region.

Barton appreciated the sacrifices made by the people and law-enforcement agencies of Pakistan against militants and reassured his government’s possible support to the country in its mission to eradicate extremism and promote development in the region.


Published in The Express Tribune, February 8^th, 2015.