PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has said that merely visiting Afghanistan or discussions “over a cup of tea” cannot resolve the deep-rooted issues of terrorism and differences between Kabul and Islamabad.
He pointed out that many countries and their military forces faced defeat in Afghanistan, and not all of Kabul’s issues were within its control.
Speaking at a press conference at the Governor House in Peshawar on Monday, he stressed the importance of finding solutions for the complex issues facing both countries.
“A visit to Afghanistan or a cup of tea will not solve the issues. As foreign minister, I facilitated China-Pakistan-Afghanistan negotiations. The problems of Afghanistan and Pakistan should be resolved, acknowledging that not all issues are under Afghan control.”
He questioned the silence on terrorism, recalling that it was the PPP’s demand that led to briefings by General (retd) Bajwa and Faiz Hameed to parliament. He expressed anticipation for the APC to present their position based on facts, neither criticizing nor praising every government decision.
Bilawal accused the K-P government of facilitating terrorists for 15 years. He praised the governor for including provincial projects in the PSDP and proposed free 300 units if made prime minister. He further shared plans for free solar systems for the poor in Sindh’s budget, addressing economic burdens, and advocating for a shift of indirect taxes from the poor to the elite.
He emphasised the need for broad consultation on security issues, involving not just allies but the opposition as well. “How long will we continue to carry bodies? When will good days come? Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has the worst law and order situation. Facilitators of terrorists are presented as heroes,” he lamented.
Bilawal highlighted the significant security challenges in the province, noting that peace was established through great sacrifices.
“We defeated terrorists with public support and the bravery of our forces. Terrorist organisations are resurging from K-P to Balochistan. We will participate in the prime minister’s APC with our stance, working together to address these issues. We have always stood by the public and the military,” he said.
The PPP chairman pointed out that the current government stands because of PPP votes and emphasised the importance of consulting the party before the budget. He expressed confidence that the prime minister and his team would address their concerns and issues, promising prior consultation for the next budget.
Bilawal met with various personalities, including members of the provincial assembly and the Peshawar Press Club cabinet. He expressed his desire to visit the press club, highlighting the development work carried out by the PPP in Sindh.
He invited journalists from other provinces to observe the progress in Sindh, mentioning efforts to combat poverty through interest-free loans and reconstruction of flood-damaged homes, including granting ownership rights to affected homeowners.
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