Security concerns: ‘Autarky key to preserving integrity, independence’

Shahbaz says it is vital to enable the country to resist elements working against the its integrity and independence.

LAHORE:

Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif called upon the nation to achieve autarky, saying it was vital to enable the country to resist elements working against the country’s integrity and independence.

Asserting that recent events were linked, he said that incidents like the Raymond Davis case, Abbottabad raid, attack on PNS Mehran and drone attacks were manifestations of a common problem and asserted that it was time to stand up against the enemies of the country.

He was addressing a public meeting at the District Council Complex during his visit to Khushab on Wednesday.

According to Shahbaz, “outside forces” posed a great threat to the freedom of the nation and that the “enemies” wanted to weaken the country but the people must remain united.

He also called for a renouncing foreign aid, saying: “We will eat simple food but will not allow anyone to spoil the dignity and honour of our country.” The chief minister stressed the need for self sustainability.

“If we want to live as an independent and dignified nation, we will have to review our priorities and make some very tough decisions,” he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 26^th, 2011.