Drawing attention: Peace linked with progress: Salim Saifullah

Politico says child abuse rampant in country.

PESHAWAR: Senior politico and former lawmaker Salim Saifullah Khan said peace and normalcy are inextricably linked with socio-economic development.

Speaking to journalists at his residence in the city on Wednesday, he said the Kasur child pornography scandal is the worst form of terror and the government should address the matter with immediate effect.

“Child abuse is rampant in the whole country and not just Kasur,” said the former lawmaker.

According to Salim, the country stands at a juncture where it has to choose between malpractice, nepotism, corruption and progress.  “There was a time when Lakki Marwat was plagued with anti-state elements,” he said. “With industrial development in the region, it became one of the most peaceful parts of the country.”

Need of the hour

Returning to the political sphere after a prolonged absence, Salim said the government should formulate a comprehensive industrial policy and focus on the housing sector. “This century belongs to Asia,” he said. “At this stage, China’s cooperation is vital for economic development in Pakistan.”



Speaking about the resignation of Muttahida Qaumi Movement lawmakers from the Sindh and National assemblies and the Senate, he said the move will only fuel polarisation in the country. He urged Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to address the grievances of the Karachi-based party.

Furthermore, he emphasised on establishing peace in Afghanistan to ensure peace in Pakistan. Salim also condemned the recent terror attacks in Kabul.

Battle for glory

The former lawmaker has also announced a comprehensive plan to promote tennis in the country. “We are trying to concentrate our energies on qualifying for the final round of the tournament which will be held in Izmir in September,” Salim said.

According to the lawmaker, the Pakistan Tennis Federation plans to establish new tennis courts to boost the importance of the sport.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 13^th, 2015.

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