Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stated that there is no justification for the US sanctions imposed on Pakistan due to its missile program, asserting that there will be no compromise on the missile program.
Speaking at a cabinet meeting, PM Shehbaz Sharif reiterated that Pakistan’s nuclear program is solely for the defence of the nation and not intended for aggression.
He emphasised that the country will persist in taking robust steps to safeguard its security. The prime minister also expressed strong disapproval of the sanctions imposed on the National Defense Complex and other Pakistani firms, asserting 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, nor any political party’s; it belongs to the 240 million people of this country, and it is dear to them. There will be no compromise on this program, and the entire nation is united on this issue.”
On terrorism, PM said, “A few days ago, 17 of our personnel were martyred in an attack by the Khawarij. Prayers should be offered for them.” Following his request, the participants of the meeting prayed for their souls.
He further mentioned that eight of the attackers had been killed, and the army chief had personally visited Wana to encourage the forces. “Until terrorism is completely eradicated, the full benefits of our efforts for development and prosperity cannot reach the nation. We are utilising all resources in collaboration with the provinces to eliminate terrorism. We will not rest until the terrorist threat is fully crushed,” he added.
He noted that the situation regarding terrorism in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa differs slightly, expressing deep sorrow over sectarian killings in which both sides had suffered losses. “Both groups are armed in Kurram, but I do not wish to go into the details. The unfortunate part is that, at the time of this bloodshed, Islamabad was being attacked. Had the KPK government focused on it, the damage would have been less.”
The prime minister also discussed recent political developments, stating that a meeting with PTI had taken place following the Speaker’s action, and a negotiating committee had been formed.
“The next meeting of the committee will take place on January 2. The national interest requires that personal interests be subordinated to national interests. Personal preferences must be sacrificed. Negotiations will proceed 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 am not questioning anyone’s intentions, but if the intent is otherwise, it will not benefit the country. I hope that PTI and the government will work together to find a solution in the best interest of Pakistan. We will move forward with sincerity, but both hands need to clap for success. I am hopeful that PTI will also work in 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 programme.
“In light of the continuing proliferation threat of Pakistan’s long-range missile development, the United States is designating four entities for sanctions pursuant to Executive Order (E.O.) 13382, which targets proliferators of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery,” read a statement issued by the State Department.?
Earlier, the US listed Chinese and Belarusian entities on charges of supplying equipment and material for Pakistan’s long-range missile program. Pakistan at the time dismissed the allegations and questioned the double standards of the US.
The entities that the US listed includes Pakistan’s National Development Complex. The US claims Pakistan 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 United States’ decision to impose sanctions on its National Development Complex (NDC) and three commercial entities, calling the move “unfortunate and biased.”
