PM: We will never fight ‘imposed wars’ again

islamabad — Prime Minister Imran Khan on Monday told tribal elders in Waziristan that Pakistan has “fought an imposed war inside our country,” and that “we shall not fight any such war again inside Pakistan”.

The premier had travelled to Miranshah, North Waziristan, earlier in the day accompanied by Army Chief Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mahmood Khan. This was his first visit to the newly-merged tribal districts of North Waziristan.

“No other country or armed forces have done what Pakistan and its military have done in the war against terrorism,” PM Khan was quoted as saying by Inter-Services Public Relations.

Furthermore, the premier said that Pakistan will play its “role in the Afghan peace process along with other stakeholders as peace in Afghanistan is critical for achieving enduring peace in Pakistan”.

The prime minister also lauded

the people of erstwhile Fata for “courageously facing challenging and difficult times of terrorism”, the ISPR said.

Upon his arrival to Miranshah earlier in the day, the prime minister had been briefed on the security situation, ongoing stability operations, socio-economic projects and rehabilitation of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

Seven districts of the erstwhile Fata were merged with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the wake of the 25th Constitutional amendment. This is

the head of government’s first visit to the region after its merger with the province.

Upon arrival, PM Khan laid floral wreath at the martyrs’ monument.

He was briefed about operations conducted, ongoing stability operations, rehabilitation of IDPs, socioeconomic development projects and fencing along the Pak-Afghan border.

The prime minister also visited Ghulam Khan border terminal and saw the border fencing.

Khan paid tributes to the martyrs and their families who have sacrificed so much for the safety, security and prosperity of the people of Pakistan and the motherland.

The premier announced various welfare packages for the newly established districts of the erstwhile Fata.

He announced establishment of a university, army cadet college and job opportunities including enrollment in law enforcement agencies.

“A new Pakistan is in the making,” the prime minister concluded. —