ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has urged the formation of a special committee to craft a clear and comprehensive strategy aimed at eliminating terrorism and countering what he described as India’s proxy war against Pakistan.
Addressing the Senate, Dar condemned the recent terrorist attack targeting schoolchildren in Khuzdar, labeling the incident as a “cowardly and intolerable act.” He stressed the need for an immediate and unified national response to such threats.
Call for Inter-Ministerial Coordination
Dar proposed that key ministries — including Interior, Foreign Affairs, and Defence — collaborate to create a dedicated committee tasked with formulating a national counterterrorism roadmap.
“The curse of terrorism must end. The prime minister and military leadership are fully focused on this issue,” Dar said, emphasizing the urgency for coordinated action.
He noted that elements of the National Action Plan have been executed, but warned that previous governments allowed militants into the country through open borders and poor enforcement.
India’s Alleged Role in Proxy Warfare
Without naming specific groups, Dar said Indian proxies were behind attacks on innocent civilians, including the Khuzdar school bus tragedy, and demanded that such activities cease.
“Indian proxies must cease their operations,” he said, reiterating his government’s commitment to protect citizens and respond forcefully to such provocations.—
Terrorism Discussed in China Visit
The foreign minister also revealed that counterterrorism was a central topic during his recent diplomatic engagement with Chinese officials. The issue, he said, remains a priority on Pakistan’s foreign policy agenda.
Pakistan’s Peacekeeping Legacy and Africa Ties
Highlighting Pakistan’s global role in promoting peace, Dar cited the country’s contribution to United Nations peacekeeping missions in Africa, particularly in Rwanda, Ghana, and Ivory Coast.
“Our peace forces have played a vital role in maintaining peace in Africa. We support Africa’s fight for independence and share longstanding ties with the continent,” he stated.
National Unity Urged
Concluding his remarks, Dar stressed the importance of a unified national front to confront both domestic and foreign threats. He urged parliamentarians and institutions to work together to restore peace and stability in the region.
“It’s time to act collectively. Our future depends on eradicating terrorism and ensuring the safety and dignity of every citizen,” he said.
