TTP talks will restore peace: PM

Nawaz says the entire nation is standing behind their valiant armed forces.

LONDON:

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has expressed confidence that his government’s peace initiative would help restore the much-needed peace in Pakistan. “Peace will return to Pakistan soon as the dialogue with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan is making headway,” he told journalists in London where he arrived on Tuesday on a three-day official visit.

He said the government started the negotiation process with good intentions. “The whole world adopted such approaches [to quell unrests],” he said and referred to how the United Kingdom resolved the Ireland issue.

About the Karachi situation, he said peace in the port city was imperative. “We did not waste time [after coming to power]. We took all the parties on board. And through [the ongoing targeted] operation, the [law and order] situation in Karachi is being controlled. Peace in Karachi is dear to us as it is the economic hub and commercial centre of Pakistan.”

About the economy, the prime minister said his cabinet has taken measures to create an investment-friendly environment, prompting expatriates to invest in the country and share their part in its development. “Economic indicators are showing upward and positive trends,” he added.



Later, the premier met with British International Development Secretary Justine Greening where they discussed issues pertaining to development and welfare. Nawaz said his priorities included reviving the economy, overcoming the energy shortages, eradicating extremism and protecting human rights. “Pakistan appreciates the generous development assistance by the British government, especially in the health and education sectors,” he added.

During his trip, the prime minister will hold discussions with his British counterpart David Cameron on matters of mutual interest. According to an official, the premier would discuss matters related to Afghanistan, especially the withdrawal of NATO and British forces from the country. The new government of Afghanistan and its relations with Pakistan will also come under discussion, he added.

Youm-e-Shuhada

In his message on the occasion of Youm-e-Shuhada (Martyrs’ Day), being observed today (Wednesday), Premier Nawaz said the entire nation is standing behind their valiant armed forces to fulfil the sacred mission of the defence of the motherland.

“The mutual relations of our armed forces and people for stability of country’s defence will not be allowed to wean,” he said.

The great sons who sacrificed their today for the nation’s tomorrow were our benefactors and the sacred blood of these martyrs would keep alive the determination for the defence of the country in the hearts of our soldiers and officers.

Parents deserve accolades for upbringing these brave sons of the soil, the prime minister said, adding that the entire nation presented tributes to the martyrs.

He said that being defenders of the frontiers, the armed forces were our proud national asset.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 30^th, 2014.