Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stated that there is no justification for the sanctions imposed by the United States on Pakistan due to its missile programme, stating that there will be no compromise on the missile programme.
Speaking at a cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that Pakistan’s nuclear program is solely for the defense of the nation and is not aimed at aggression.
He stressed that the country will persist in taking firm measures to safeguard its security. The prime minister also expressed his strong disapproval of the sanctions imposed on the National Defense Complex and other Pakistani companies, stating that there is no legitimate reason for such actions.
He further added that Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had given a strong response to the matter, but one thing is clear: “This program is not mine or that of any political party; it belongs to the 240 million people of this country, and is loved for them. There will be no compromise on this program, and the entire nation is united on this issue.”
On terrorism, the Prime Minister said: “A few days ago, 17 of our personnel were martyred in an attack by the Khawarij. Prayers should be offered for them.” Following their request, the participants in the meeting prayed for their souls.
He further mentioned that eight of the attackers had been killed and that the army chief had personally visited Wana to encourage the forces. “Until terrorism is completely eradicated, all the benefits of our efforts for development and prosperity will not be able to reach the nation. We are using all resources in collaboration with the provinces to eliminate terrorism. We will not rest until the terrorist threat be completely crushed,” he said. aggregate.
He noted that the situation regarding terrorism in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa differs slightly, and expressed deep regret over the sectarian killings in which both sides had suffered losses. “Both groups are armed in Kurram, but I do not wish to go into details. The unfortunate thing is that at the time of this bloodshed, Islamabad was under attack. If the KPK government had focused on it, the damage would have been greater . less.”
The prime minister also reviewed the recent political developments and stated that a meeting had been held with the PTI following the president’s action and a negotiation committee had been formed.
“The next meeting of the committee will take place on January 2. National interest demands that personal interests be subordinated to national interests. Personal preferences must be sacrificed. Negotiations will be conducted with this in mind, and this will surely bring peace to the country, establish national unity and accelerate the wheel of development.
He concluded by saying: “I do not question anyone’s intentions, but if the intention is different, it will not benefit the country. I hope that the PTI and the government will work together to find a solution that will benefit Pakistan. Let us move forward sincerely, but it is necessary to applaud with both hands to achieve success. I am hopeful that the PTI will also work for the national interest.”
Last week, the United States imposed sanctions on four Pakistani entities for their alleged involvement in advancing the country’s long-range missile program.
“In light of the continued proliferation threat from Pakistan’s long-range missile development, the United States is designating four entities for sanctions pursuant to Executive Order (EO) 13382, which targets proliferators of weapons of mass destruction and their means of launch,” it reads. a statement issued by the Department of State.?
Previously, the United States listed Chinese and Belarusian entities under charges of supplying equipment and materials for Pakistan’s long-range missile program. Pakistan at the time dismissed the allegations and questioned the United States’ double standards.
The entities the United States listed include Pakistan’s National Development Complex. The United States claims that Pakistan’s National Development Complex is responsible for Pakistan’s ballistic missile program and has worked to acquire items to advance Pakistan’s long-range ballistic missile program.
In response, Pakistan condemned the US decision to impose sanctions on its National Development Complex (NDC) and three commercial entities, calling the move “unfortunate and biased”.
