PDM enters final phase of decline: Shibli

Stresses the need for boosting ties with Cuba

ISLAMABAD:

Information Minister Shibli Faraz on Wednesday said the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) had entered the final phase of its total decline, which was evident from the Bannu rally where all “C-grade leaders” of the opposition parties participated.

In a tweet, the minister said the “failed narrative” and non-participation of the public in the PDM rallies had disappointed the central leadership of the allied political parties.

“The PDM’s gatherings had started shrinking and turned into small crowds, whereas its command gradually came into hands of B and now to C-category leadership,” Shibli said.

The PDM – the 11-party alliance – has been made to oust the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf government. According to the grand opposition alliance, the government has damaged the economy and development sectors because of its policies. And, the government has maintained the opposition wants the National Reconciliation Order under the garb of public demonstration. The government has also accused the PDM of risking public life by organising mass rallies in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic.

Meanwhile, outgoing Cuban Ambassador Gabriel Tiel Capote paid a farewell call on Information Minister Shibli Faraz. Both discussed matters related to mutual interest and bilateral relations.

The information minister stressed the need for increasing cooperation with Cuba in the field of culture, highlighting the country’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.

“Pakistan has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that needs to be shared with the Cuban people. Collaboration in the areas of culture and media will help promote bilateral relations,” he said.

Shibli said that Pakistan and Cuba enjoy cordial relations, especially thanking the ambassador for the scholarships offered in the medical field to the students of areas badly affected in the 2005 earthquake in Pakistan. A large number of Pakistani students had benefitted from the scheme, he added.

“Cuba is a resilient nation, which has made remarkable contributions in the spheres of sports, music and medicine,” Shibli said.

The Cuban envoy appreciated the minister’s remarks regarding Cuba and said: “Pakistan has supported them at the diplomatic level.” He emphasised the need for the implementation of various MoUs signed between Cuba and Pakistan in different fields for the mutual benefit of the people of both countries. APP