Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has stressed the urgent need for augmented security arrangements to protect Chinese citizens in Pakistan.
During a federal cabinet meeting in Islamabad, he expressed his condolences over the tragic incident in Karachi, which claimed the lives of two Chinese nationals.
“This incident took place after the Basham event. As you know, after the incident took place, we received a very concerned message from China. They stressed that the security of the Chinese working in Pakistan must be strengthened significantly,” he said, saying that the incident occurred despite Pakistan’s assurances and commitment to the security.
“However, despite our efforts, this unfortunate incident took place, which is a cause of sorrow not only for the Chinese people and leadership but also for the people of Pakistan.” He said he had a telephonic conversation with the Chinese ambassador the night before yesterday, and then he personally visited to him to express condolences.
He said he informed the Chinese officials that the tragedy had occurred despite Pakistan’s best efforts, which was regretful. “But this does not mean that we will stop our efforts here. Our resolve is stronger than ever, and we will leave no stone unturned in strengthening security measures.”
Shehbaz Sharif said the Chinese government had expressed their concern – after the Besham incident – regarding the security of Chinese nationals in Pakistan. “Naturally, they are deeply shocked, and we share their grief. The Chinese ambassador discussed this matter in detail with me, and I assured him that we have made all necessary preparations for the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization event. I also explained to him that we had a comprehensive meeting on security.”
The prime minister said that Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and China had, once again, played a crucial role in helping Pakistan with the International Monetary Fund program, just as they had done in the past. He also talked about the recent visit of Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and its positive outcomes.
“Anwar Ibrahim made very positive remarks, which the entire Pakistani nation heard. He spoke about increasing Pakistan’s exports, particularly halal meat and rice, and publicly committed to supporting this cause. We also discussed exploring other areas of cooperation,” he said.
The premier mentioned that there a delegation from Saudi Arabia would also be visiting Pakistan tomorrow, which would be followed by the Chinese prime minister’s visit for bilateral talks. “The Shanghai Cooperation Organization event presents a great opportunity for Pakistan to showcase its hospitality,” he said, adding that the recent targeting of Chinese engineers ahead of all those visits by foreign dignitaries was alarming.
Unacceptable
Shehbaz Sharif also slammed the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, saying that the party had resorted to protests, just like they did back in 2014. However, he made it clear that the government would not allow the repeat of that “gory tale”. “There are continued threats and attacks on the federal government, with extremely offensive rhetoric being used. These events are a replica of what happened in 2014-15 when prolonged protests at D-Chowk severely damaged Pakistan’s economy,” he said.
The prime minister recalled that Chinese president had to delay his trip to Pakistan for seven months back then just because of the chaos in Islamabad. He said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor was scheduled to begin at that time, but it had to be delayed. “Everyone knew that it would bring billions of dollars in investment. There was no greater disservice to Pakistan than sabotaging this project,” he said.
“At that time, we were experiencing 20-hour-long power outages, our agriculture sector had withered, our industries had ground to a halt, and millions of people lost their jobs. Exporters lost contracts, as foreign buyers refused to engage with Pakistan. Despite all this, the protesters remained adamant. Their objective was clear: to cripple Pakistan’s economy.”
He said the ongoing protests by the same political party, and the constant pressure on Islamabad, were similar to what the people saw in 2014. “I believe these are malicious intentions, evil plans aimed at harming Pakistan. Why is this happening now? Even someone blind can understand that our IMF program has been completed through collective efforts and careful planning. After that, inflation, which was at 32% a year ago, has now dropped to 6.9%, according to some of the world’s top institutions. Our remittances have increased, and there has been growth in information technology exports. Our economy is recovering. Just look at the stock market… These are the reasons why this group is unhappy … [they are upset] with Pakistan’s progress.”
Talking about the achievements of the present government, he said the condition of the poor had improved, and the burden of inflation eased. “They (political opponents) are constantly plagued by grief, and they are concerned that if the economy stabilizes, no one will pay attention to them. Therefore, they stir up trouble everywhere,” he said. “Who will invest in Pakistan under such circumstances? It is clear as day that investment occurs only where conditions are stable and peaceful, where investors know their capital is safe,” he added. He said the nation needed to understand that the ongoing actions, including the protests led by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister, are part of organized efforts to disrupt progress.
Shehbaz Sharif said the country had seen substantial progress, as evident by the doubling of tax filers registered with the Federal Board of Revenue. “This did not happen overnight; it resulted from relentless hard work,” he said. He also mentioned that the reforms the government was implementing, such as digitizing the entire FBR system, were aimed at curbing tax evasion.
“Additionally, we have been working diligently on the energy sector. We provided subsidies of Rs50 billion for three months for consumers using up to 200 units of electricity. The Punjab government also spent Rs55 billion to offer two months of relief,” he said, adding that those steps were aimed at providing some comfort to the people.
He said that spreading anarchy at this time – when the Saudi delegation is set to arrive to sign agreements worth more than $2 billion – would be the greatest blow to Pakistan’s progress. “They must come to their senses. What have they achieved in their time [as rulers] other than instigating riots, arson, insults, and spreading division?”
The prime minister said that governance was a serious matter, adding that the entire world acknowledges the progress Pakistan has made under the leadership of Nawaz Sharif, the former prime minister and the founder of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz political party. “Now, the government must proceed cautiously so that we do not end up in a situation like before.”