Former information minister Sherry Rehman advocated more support for Pakistan, a frontline state in the war against terror, in her interaction with members of the European Parliament in Brussels.
Rehman emphasised that intelligence must be shared if it is actionable with Pakistan’s officials, otherwise it will weaken democratic governments and provide impetus for destabilising dissent on the street, according to a statement received by the Pakistan’s embassy in Brussels. The government cannot be expected to make a choice between sovereignty and counter-terrorism, as that would not play out well for democracy or stability in the country. She impressed upon the legislators that Pakistan at this point in time requires support and not condemnation through parliamentary resolutions in a briefing on the challenges Pakistan is grappling with due to the ongoing war in Afghanistan.
Rehman countered the wave of apprehensions amplified by the western media over the security of nuclear assets in the aftermath of the Bin Laden operation. She reassured parliamentarians that nuclear facilities are closely guarded with a highly evolved command and control system.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 7th, 2011.
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